Shrinking Civic Space? The State of Freedom of Expression in Contemporary Indonesia

Abstract

This paper examines the current state of freedom of expression in Indonesia, focusing on the shrinking civic space and increasing governmental control over public discourse. Over the past two decades, Indonesia has made significant strides toward democratic consolidation, yet recent years have witnessed a troubling trend in curbing freedoms of assembly, association, and speech. This study analyzes the legal and political landscape, considering the impact of laws such as the ITE Law (Information and Electronic Transactions Law) and the 2019 Omnibus Law on civil society organizations, journalists, and activists. The paper explores how these laws, ostensibly designed to maintain public order and protect citizens from digital harms, have been leveraged to stifle dissent and limit public critique of government actions. Drawing on case studies of key legal battles and high-profile incidents of repression, this paper provides a nuanced understanding of the mechanisms of control that impact freedom of expression. Additionally, it assesses the role of social media as both a platform for resistance and a tool for government surveillance. The findings suggest that while Indonesia’s commitment to democracy remains strong in some areas, the erosion of civic freedoms poses significant challenges to democratic health and the rule of law.