Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, fully guaranteed by the constitution and law. It is an integral part of democracy and a country that follows the rule of law. But over the past few months, authorities have responded to student and labor protests with repressive and brutal behavior.
According to Article 1(3) of the Indonesian Constitution, Indonesia is a country based on the rule of law. Rights, authorities, duties, and restrictions are therefore regulated by law. Authorities cannot exercise any actions in the name of the state if such actions are extra-judicial.
The Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI), and its network of 16 legal aid foundations across Indonesia, has gathered complaints, conducted consultations, and gathered public data and cases from other regions, related to the right of freedom of expression throughout 2019.
