Amnesty International Exposes Indonesian Authorities’ Disinformation Campaigns Targeting Critics

Amnesty International has released a damning report revealing that Indonesian authorities, including the military, have orchestrated coordinated online disinformation campaigns to silence activists, journalists, and critics. The report, titled “Building Up Imaginary Enemies”, highlights how these efforts have led to threats, violence, and a chilling effect on free expression in the world’s third-largest democracy.

The Scale of the Disinformation Efforts

According to the report, social media accounts linked to military units and President Prabowo Subianto’s Gerindra party have been used to label activists and journalists as “foreign agents” and spread false narratives to discredit their work. These campaigns, which gained momentum after Prabowo’s election in 2024, have been described as a systematic attempt to “shut down public debate and justify repression.”

Amnesty’s Secretary General, Agnes Callamard, stated, “In the 18 months since Prabowo took power, online disinformation has emerged as a key tactic to systematically discredit government critics.” The report underscores a troubling trend of authoritarian practices under the current administration, with the military expanding its role in civilian affairs.

Impact on Activists and Journalists

The disinformation campaigns have had severe consequences for those targeted. Activists and journalists have faced physical threats, harassment, and even violence. The report cites cases where online smear campaigns escalated into real-world intimidation, undermining the safety of those who speak out against government policies.

“Social media platforms have failed to curb the spread of harmful content,” the report notes. It criticizes tech companies for not taking sufficient action to address the proliferation of disinformation, which has been used to vilify dissenting voices.

Government and Military Response

Neither Prabowo’s office nor the Indonesian military has publicly responded to the allegations. However, the report suggests that the government’s reliance on disinformation reflects a broader strategy to suppress opposition and consolidate power. This aligns with concerns raised by human rights advocates about Indonesia’s regression toward authoritarianism under Prabowo’s leadership.

Broader Implications for Democracy

The findings have sparked international scrutiny. Amnesty International has called on the Indonesian government to investigate the involvement of military and political entities in disinformation efforts and to protect the rights of activists and journalists. The report also urges social media platforms to implement stricter measures to prevent the spread of harmful content.

As Indonesia continues to grapple with these challenges, the situation serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by state-sponsored disinformation. The erosion of free speech and the targeting of critics threaten the foundations of democratic governance, raising urgent questions about the future of human rights in the region.