Jakarta: Indonesia is witnessing a worrying rise in pressure on government critics, including disinformation campaigns and physical attacks, under President Prabowo Subianto, Amnesty International has said in a new report.
According to Beyond Time News, the rights group warns that online smear tactics and intimidation are increasingly being used to silence dissenting voices in the country.
Report Flags Use of “Foreign Agent” Label
In its report titled “Building up Imaginary Enemies,” Amnesty International says critics of the government are being repeatedly labelled as “foreign agents” online.
The group says these narratives are often amplified on social media, shaping public opinion against activists, journalists, and academics.
Activist Targeted in Acid Attack
The report highlights the case of 27-year-old activist Andrie Yunus, who was attacked with acid in March.
The attack left him blind in one eye and reportedly came shortly after he publicly criticised the military’s expanding role in government.
Amnesty says the incident reflects a broader pattern of intimidation against outspoken critics.
Disinformation and Online Targeting
Amnesty alleges that state-linked actors, including military-related sources, are involved in spreading false narratives targeting government critics.
These campaigns often accuse individuals of being influenced or funded by foreign powers, claims Amnesty says are used to justify repression.
The report also notes that such online labelling sometimes appears before real-world harassment or violence.
Concerns Over Social Media Platforms
The rights group also criticises major platforms, including Meta, TikTok, X, and YouTube, for failing to stop the spread of harmful content.
It says these companies have allowed defamatory posts to remain online, enabling further targeting of individuals.
Some platforms told AFP they are improving moderation systems, but Amnesty says stronger action is still needed.
Allegations of State-Linked Involvement
The report further claims that officials and members of President Prabowo’s political network have publicly accused critics of foreign influence.
Amnesty says these claims are then widely shared online, helping to discredit opposition voices.
It also suggests that individuals linked to political and state structures may be involved in amplifying such narratives.
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Concerns Over Democratic Space
Amnesty International says Indonesia is showing signs of increasing authoritarian practices, with disinformation becoming a key tool to suppress criticism.
The group warns that this trend is shrinking space for free speech and weakening democratic debate.
It also stresses that the government has a responsibility to prevent the spread of false narratives by state actors.
Conclusion
Amnesty International’s findings raise serious concerns about growing online disinformation and intimidation targeting critics in Indonesia.
According to Beyond Time News, the report highlights the increasing tension between state power, digital platforms, and civil liberties in the country.
