Two Years of Prabowo's Presidency: Civic Space Deemed Obstructed
A CIVICUS Monitor report says Indonesia's civic space is 'obstructed' during the first two years of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. The assessment highlights a rise in attacks, harassment, and prosecutions against human rights defenders, restrictions on press freedom, and the use of force to break up peaceful protests. The situation is seen as inconsistent with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which Indonesia ratified back in 2005.
The report documents various incidents, including the targeting of groups like KontraS, the criminalization of environmental and student activists, and a tough crackdown on demonstrations opposing government policies. In Papua, it notes serious human rights violations such as arbitrary arrests and excessive force by security personnel against peaceful actions.
On top of that, the passing of several laws, like the revision of the TNI Law, raises concerns about the military's expanding role in civilian affairs and weakening oversight. The government also caught flak for using disinformation campaigns and efforts seen as silencing dissent.
In response, CIVICUS recommends that the government protect civil society, human rights defenders, and journalists; guarantee freedom of expression and peaceful assembly; and investigate all alleged violations and prosecute the perpetrators.
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