Indonesia: Additional protests possible in Papua Province as of March 11 over the proposed expansion of the region

Event

Additional protests are possible across Papua Province as of March 11, over the proposed expansion of the region. Various groups opposed to the creation of new administrative divisions have held disruptive protests in Jayapura and Wamena in recent days; each event involved hundreds of participants. Activists in the customary La Pago area - comprising Bintang Mountains, Central Membramo, Jayawijaya Regency, Lanny Jaya, Nduga, Puncak, Puncak Jaya, Tolikara, Yahukimo, and Yalimo regencies - have threatened to disrupt government offices if authorities do not withdraw the plan. Further demonstrations may occur in the coming days, as discussions over ratification of the proposed provincial expansion continue. Thousands of people may join larger gatherings, mainly in urban centers.

Heightened security deployment is likely at rallies; police have used force to disperse disruptive gatherings. Popular protest venues include government buildings, public squares, and university campuses. Officials may impose security cordons, road closures, and traffic diversions near demonstrations. Protestors may block on or march on streets, prompting localized transport disruptions. Activists may clash with police and/or supporters of the proposal who may hold counterrallies.