Why are people protesting?

The trigger for the protests was the passing of contentious amendments to Indonesia’s military law by the Indonesian parliament on March 20, 2025. These amendments included provisions allowing for indefinite detention without trial for individuals accused of undermining military operations, as well as harsh penalties for dissent against the state [1]. The amendments were perceived by many as an attack on civil rights and democratic principles, sparking widespread outrage among students, activists, and the general public.

Additionally, the protests were fueled by long-standing grievances over corruption, systemic racism against Papuan Indigenous communities, and a lack of accountability for human rights violations committed by state forces.

How and why did the protests escalate?

The protests escalated rapidly due to a combination of public frustration, viral social media coverage, and the government’s heavy-handed response. Initially, the protests were confined to university campuses and small demonstrations in Jakarta, but they quickly spread after students and activists shared videos of police using tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse peaceful gatherings. The fatal shooting of a protester by security forces in Surabaya on March 22, brought thousands to the streets.

As the protests grew, they began to coalesce around demands for not only the repeal of the military law amendments but also broader social justice issues, including Indigenous rights and accountability for past human rights abuses. The involvement of labor unions, teachers, and other civil society groups further bolstered the movement and made it more difficult for the government to contain.

What was the response from the government and official bodies like police and military?

The government’s response to the protests has been marked by a mix of repression and co-optation. Police and military forces have been deployed to quell demonstrations, with reports of excessive force being used to disperse crowds. Security forces have also arrested scores of protesters, including student leaders and journalists, often under vague charges related to disturbing public order.

The government has also attempted to co-opt the movement by engaging in limited dialogue with protest leaders while simultaneously pushing narratives in state-controlled media that portray the protests as being instigated by foreign agents or anarchists.

Have the protesters themselves been attacked or intimidated?

Yes, protesters have been subjected to attacks and intimidation by both state and non-state actors. Security forces have used tear gas, rubber bullets, and watermark guns to disperse demonstrations, and there have been reports of beatings and arbitrary arrests [1]. In at least one instance, a protester was fatally shot by security forces, which further enraged the public and drew international condemnation.

Moreover, radical nationalist groups have targeted Papuan protesters with racial slurs and threats, exacerbating tensions and highlighting the systemic nature of discrimination in Indonesia.

How were people protesting?

The protests have employed a variety of tactics, including peaceful demonstrations, sit-ins, and the use of social media to mobilize support and disseminate information. Students have played a central role in organizing marches and rallies, often chanting slogans like “Reformasi Ya!” (Reform Now!) and “Say No to Military Law!”.

In addition to traditional forms of protest, activists have leveraged digital platforms to share实时 updates, livestream arrests, and coordinate efforts across cities. This digital activism has been crucial in amplifying the movement’s message and garnering international attention.

Another notable tactic has been the formation of human chains and candlelight vigils, which have served to symbolize unity and resistance in the face of government repression.

How did the movement build into something much bigger than a group of disgruntled people assembling?

The movement gained critical mass through a combination of grassroots organizing, solidarity from diverse groups, and viral social media campaigns. Initially led by students and activists, the protests quickly drew support from labor unions, teachers, and other sectors of society tired of corruption and inequality.

Key to the movement’s success has been its ability to link the repeal of the military law amendments to broader demands for justice and accountability. By framing the protests as part of a larger struggle for democracy and human rights, organizers have been able to attract a wide coalition of supporters.

The role of social media cannot be overstated. Videos of police brutality, shared widely on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, have sparked outrage and mobilized thousands more to join the protests [1]. International solidarity, including statements from human rights organizations and the global university community, has also given the movement added momentum.

At the core of the protests have been young, urban professionals and students who are increasingly vocal about their vision for a more just and democratic Indonesia. Their determination and creativity have been instrumental in building amovement that has captured the nation’s attention and forced the government to respond.