Digital Repression: Amnesty International Reports on Disinformation in Indonesia

In a significant report released on May 19, 2026, Amnesty International has shed light on a troubling pattern of state-aligned digital aggression in Indonesia. The report, titled “Building up Imaginary Enemies,” details how online disinformation campaigns have been weaponized to target and silence government critics over the first 18 months of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration.

The Weaponization of Disinformation

Amnesty International’s research reveals that Indonesian authorities, including military-connected entities, have increasingly utilized social media to discredit journalists, activists, academics, and protesters. By systematically labeling these individuals as “foreign agents,” state and state-aligned actors aim to undermine their credibility and justify various forms of repression.

Agnès Callamard, Secretary General at Amnesty International, noted that these authoritarian practices have accelerated since President Prabowo Subianto took power. According to Callamard, this disinformation is not merely a nuisance but a “political weapon, deployed to consolidate the government’s power when public criticism intensifies, while demonizing and weakening those who dare to speak out.”

From Online Slurs to Offline Harm

The report highlights a dangerous nexus between digital harassment and physical safety. Online disinformation campaigns frequently precede intimidation tactics and violent attacks against dissidents. By shifting the narrative away from legitimate grievances, these coordinated efforts create an environment where human rights defenders are increasingly vulnerable to retaliation.

The chilling effect of these campaigns is significant, as the fear of being targeted online often discourages public debate and peaceful dissent. The report emphasizes that this systematic discrediting of critics serves as a key tactic to shut down public discourse.

The Role of Tech Platforms

A critical component of the report addresses the responsibility of major social media companies. Amnesty International asserts that platforms such as Meta, TikTok, X, and YouTube have failed to curb the spread of this harmful content effectively. By allowing coordinated disinformation to remain online, these companies are accused of sitting back while state actors use their platforms to facilitate human rights abuses.

Key Takeaways

• Systematic Targeting: Activists, journalists, and academics are frequently branded as “foreign agents” to discredit their work.
• Escalation of Violence: Online disinformation is linked to offline intimidation and physical violence against government critics.
• Platform Accountability: Major tech companies are under scrutiny for failing to mitigate the rapid spread of disinformation on their platforms.
• Democratic Impact: These tactics are effectively silencing public debate and narrowing the space for civil society in Indonesia.

Looking Ahead

The findings from “Building up Imaginary Enemies” underscore a critical challenge for human rights in the digital age. As state actors refine their ability to manipulate online narratives, the need for robust protections for activists and increased accountability for social media giants becomes ever more urgent. Amnesty International’s investigation serves as a stark reminder that the digital space is now a primary front in the struggle to protect freedom of expression and the safety of those who advocate for justice.