In a worrying trend, the Indonesian human rights watchdog, KontraS, is facing a rising wave of intimidation and harassment. Established in 1998, this organisation monitors human rights violations and helps victims of state violence. They are facing severe threats, especially surrounding their fierce opposition to controversial amendments to the TNI Law, which expand military involvement in civil matters. The precarious situation escalated significantly around mid-March 2025 when incidents involving overt intimidation began to unfold.
On 14 March, three motorcycles cruised repeatedly past KontraS’ Jakarta office. This unsettling spectacle lasted around 15 minutes and appeared to be a tactic to surveil the organisation. Just a day later, members of KontraS received a barrage of missed calls from unknown numbers, with one traced back to a security intelligence officer. This prompted growing concerns about their safety, especially with an attempted break-in occurring late at night on 16 March, where three unidentified individuals failed to breach their office.
As KontraS vocally opposed these amendments to the military law, they held protests and urged Parliament to reconsider, but the pressure seemed relentless. They called for a postponement of discussions and hosted a press conference highlighting their objections. Yet, even after the Indonesian Parliament passed the amendments on 20 March, the intimidation did not cease. Security footage revealed army vehicles parked outside their office in the weeks following, with personnel reportedly photographing the premises.
The Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders has condemned these acts of harassment, emphasising that they threaten the core of human rights advocacy. They are accusing the Indonesian authorities of trying to suppress KontraS’ efforts in defending the rights of others. A call has been put out for a thorough investigation into the harassment, alongside a plea for the Indonesian government to guarantee the safety of all human rights defenders.
The Observatory is urging action and is asking the international community to pressure Indonesian authorities to ensure the protection of KontraS and fellow defenders. This includes an independent inquiry into the intimidation and harassment campaign they are facing. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the challenges human rights organisations encounter in their fight for justice.
KontraS, an Indonesian human rights group, faces escalating harassment and intimidation, particularly related to their opposition to amendments to the TNI Law. Recent incidents include surveillance, missed calls from unknown numbers linked to security officials, and an attempted break-in. The Observatory has condemned these actions, urging the Indonesian authorities for an investigation and protection of human rights defenders.
The actions against KontraS signal a disturbing trend in Indonesia regarding the treatment of human rights defenders. Amid increasing pressures and aggressive intimidation, their calls for justice and protection have become even more urgent. The need for an independent investigation and solid assurances from the state regarding human rights advocacy is not just a request but a necessity for ensuring the safety of those who stand up against oppression.
Original Source: www.fidh.org
