Amnesty International Warns of Escalating Human Rights Crises in Indonesia Under Prabowo Administration

Amnesty International has issued a stark warning about the deteriorating human rights situation in Indonesia under President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership, citing a surge in repression, disinformation campaigns, and attacks on civil society. The organization’s 2025 annual report highlights a “year of human rights catastrophe,” marked by increased state violence, restrictions on free expression, and the criminalization of dissenting voices.

Repression of Dissent and Civil Society

Amnesty International’s Executive Director in Indonesia, Usman Hamid, stated that the early years of Prabowo’s administration have seen a troubling trend of suppressing criticism and expanding military influence. “The state’s authoritarian tendencies are evident in its response to protests, the intimidation of activists, and the targeting of indigenous communities,” Hamid said. The report specifically mentions the criminalization of land rights advocates and the use of state apparatuses to silence opposition.

One notable case cited in the report is the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, a journalist and activist, which Amnesty International alleges involved the Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS). The incident underscores the risks faced by those challenging government policies, particularly in regions where land disputes and environmental concerns are prevalent.

Disinformation and “Foreign Agent” Allegations

A 2026 report by Amnesty International USA, titled “Building Up Imaginary Enemies: Misinformation, Disinformation, and Foreign Agent Allegations in President Prabowo’s Indonesia,” reveals how state and state-aligned actors are weaponizing false narratives to undermine civil society. The report found that activists, journalists, and indigenous leaders are increasingly labeled as “foreign agents” to delegitimize their work and justify crackdowns.

“These disinformation campaigns are designed to create a climate of fear,” said the report. “By branding critics as outsiders, the government shifts public perception and justifies repression under the guise of national security.”

Land Seizures and Indigenous Rights

The report also highlights the continued displacement of indigenous communities due to land seizures and resource exploitation. Amnesty International notes that state-backed corporations often acquire land without proper consultation, violating the rights of local populations. “The expansion of militarized control over natural resources has exacerbated tensions and led to violent confrontations,” the report states.

One example cited is the suppression of the Sukatani group, whose song criticizing law enforcement was removed from online platforms. A year later, the album “Cita-citaku (Ga Jadi Polisi)” by child singer Gandhi Sehat was also pulled from circulation, raising concerns about censorship and the chilling effect on artistic expression.

Global Context and Calls for Accountability

Amnesty International’s global analysis underscores a broader pattern of states targeting human rights defenders. In Indonesia, this manifests through legal harassment, surveillance, and physical attacks. The organization has called on international bodies to pressure the Indonesian government to uphold its commitments to freedom of expression and assembly.

“The international community must not turn a blind eye to these violations,” said a spokesperson. “Indonesia’s human rights crisis is not just a domestic issue—it has global implications for the protection of civil liberties worldwide.”

Looking Ahead

As Indonesia approaches the next phase of Prabowo’s administration, Amnesty International urges sustained advocacy and vigilance. The organization emphasizes the need for independent investigations into human rights abuses and greater transparency in state actions. For now, the warnings from Amnesty serve as a critical reminder of the challenges facing Indonesia’s civil society and the urgent need for accountability.