Indonesia: Human rights rallies to occur nationwide Dec. 10 to commemorate International Human Rights Day

Event

Activists plan to stage rallies across Indonesia Dec. 10 to mark International Human Rights Day and denounce the government's alleged violations of human rights. The largest protests will probably occur in Jakarta. Possible action sites include the State Palace, the House of Representatives, the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM), and the Attorney General's Office. Activists may also gather outside Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) headquarters and the Jakarta Metro Police (Polda Metro Jaya) following a Dec. 7 incident in which police officers shot and killed six alleged members of the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI). Smaller gatherings will likely also occur outside government buildings and military or police headquarters or at monuments and prominent intersections in other cities nationwide, such as Bandung, Jayapura, Makassar, Manokwari, Medan, Palembang, Serang, and Surabaya. Hundreds to thousands of people may take part in any rally.

Authorities will almost certainly increase security, including erecting roadblocks and security cordons, at any protest sites. Localized road closures and business disruptions are likely during any gathering. Clashes between activists and security forces are possible. Mass arrests may occur if security forces consider any demonstrator to violate coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions.

Advice

Avoid the protest sites and their surrounding areas Dec. 10 due to increased security measures and possible clashes. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a non-government building. Heed all official security and transport advisories.