Indonesian Authorities Use Disinformation Campaigns to Suppress Dissent, Warns Amnesty International

Indonesian authorities, including the military, have increasingly employed coordinated disinformation campaigns to discredit activists, journalists and human rights defenders, according to a new report by Amnesty International. The findings reveal a troubling pattern of online manipulation aimed at silencing public criticism and justifying repression under President Prabowo Subianto’s administration.

Targeting Critics as “Foreign Agents”

The report, titled “Building up Imaginary Enemies,” highlights how government-linked social media accounts have circulated false narratives labeling critics as “foreign agents.” This strategy, Amnesty International argues, is designed to delegitimize dissent and foster public distrust toward legitimate activists and journalists.

“Authoritarian practices have accelerated in Indonesia under President Prabowo Subianto’s government,” said Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International. “By branding protesters, journalists, and human rights defenders as ‘foreign agents,’ Indonesia’s authorities and their supporters are deliberately shifting attention away from people’s legitimate grievances.”

Role of Social Media Platforms

The report also criticizes tech giants such as Meta, TikTok, X, and YouTube for allowing harmful disinformation to spread unchecked. These platforms, which host a significant portion of the online discourse in Indonesia, have been accused of failing to act swiftly against content that incites violence or spreads falsehoods.

“This disinformation is a political weapon, deployed to consolidate the government’s power when public criticism intensifies,” Callamard added. “While demonizing and weakening those who dare to speak out, the authorities are systematically closing down public debate.”

Violence and Intimidation Linked to Disinformation

Amnesty International documented cases where online slurs and false accusations preceded real-world intimidation and violent attacks against dissidents. The report notes that such tactics have created a climate of fear, discouraging individuals from expressing their views or participating in protests.

“The use of disinformation to silence dissent is not just a digital issue—it has real-world consequences,” said the organization. “It enables the government to justify repression while undermining the rights to free expression and assembly.”

Calls for Accountability

Amnesty International is urging the Indonesian government to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for spreading disinformation. The organization also demands that social media companies implement stricter policies to remove harmful content and prevent its dissemination.

“Indonesia’s leaders must recognize that suppressing dissent through disinformation violates fundamental human rights,” the report concludes. “The international community must also step up pressure to ensure accountability and protect those who stand up for justice.”

For more information, visit the full report by Amnesty International.