Indonesia: Protests to occur in multiple cities nationwide, Dec. 29, over amendments to labor regulations

Event

Workers' and other civic groups plan to demonstrate in multiple cities across Indonesia, including Jakarta, Dec. 29 to denounce amendments to labor laws. The largest protest will likely occur 1000-1200 outside the Constitutional Court in the capital. Organizers say additional demonstrations will occur 1000-1200 at around 17 other cities, including Bandung, Batam, Makassar, Serang, Semarang, and Surabaya; likely venues include government buildings, such as provincial, regency, or city councils, governors' offices, and Ministry of Manpower offices, as well as monuments, public squares, and other popular gathering sites. Hundreds to thousands of people have participated in past demonstrations, and a similar turnout is likely nationwide.

Labor unions may also call for strikes, which could cause production disruptions in affected areas. Workers could demonstrate near factories and industrial zones and block access to sites during the labor action. Short-term delivery and order fulfillment delays are possible.

Authorities will almost certainly bolster security at any gathering location; roadblocks or security cordons are possible. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely during any demonstrations. Protesters have previously clashed with security personnel and damaged government offices and other public facilities in several cities, including Jakarta, Makassar, and Surabaya. Further localized violence may occur during upcoming gatherings if police forcibly disperse protesters or demonstrators attempt to breach security barriers. Mass arrests may occur if security forces deem any protesters to violate coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions.

Context

The House of Representatives passed the labor law amendments, which are part of the wider omnibus law, Oct. 5. The government claims the regulations will improve investment conditions in Indonesia; however, labor organizations claim the rules will worsen working conditions and make it easier for unskilled foreign labor to enter the country. The groups also claim that policymaking discussions did not involve workers.

Advice

Avoid any demonstrations due to possible clashes. Limit exposure to government offices that may become targets for protests. Seek updated information from local contacts on any gathering plans and related disruptions; organizers may not announce details in advance. Plan for road closures and business disruptions near any demonstrations and seek alternative routes to circumvent affected areas. If violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a non-governmental building. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.