Indonesia: Hundreds arrested in Jakarta protest October 13 /update 2

Event

Indonesian officials stated that around 500 people were arrested over the course of a protest in central Jakarta on Tuesday, October 13. Demonstrators gathered to protest against the Omnibus Law on Job Creation, which they state will harm workers' rights and standards of living. Violence reportedly broke out around the Arjuna Wiwaha monument, with protesters throwing rocks at security forces, who responded with tear gas.

Further protests are likely over the near term. A heightened security presence and associated disruptions to transportation and business are to be expected in the vicinity of protest sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

The Omnibus bill was passed into law on Monday, October 5, and opponents believe the bill will undermine labor rights in Indonesia and weaken environmental protections in favor of big business.

Some 800 people have been detained in major cities in the latest series of demonstrations, and two students hospitalized with serious head injuries.

Advice

Those in Indonesia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid demonstrations and political gatherings, and heed any instructions issued by local authorities