Indonesia's Parliament expands military's civilian role amid rising protests

On March 20, 2025, Indonesia's Parliament passed a revision of its military law that has raised substantial concerns among human rights activists and pro-democracy groups. This decision was finalized during a plenary session and received unanimous support from all eight political parties represented in Parliament, many of which are aligned with President Prabowo Subianto. Currently, active military officers can only hold positions in ministries or agencies related to security, defense, or intelligence; however, this new law allows military personnel to serve in additional civilian roles in sectors such as the Attorney General’s Office and the Supreme Court without the need to resign from the military. The amendment to the law has been criticized for potentially undermining democratic processes that have been established since the fall of the Suharto regime in 1998. Observers have voiced fear that the expansion of military involvement in civilian affairs mirrors past authoritarian practices, reminiscent of Suharto’s era when the military assumed significant control over governance. The swift and secretive manner in which the law was deliberated and passed, without sufficient public engagement, further exacerbates these concerns. Proponents of the law argue that it is necessary for addressing modern geopolitical challenges, but critics warn that it may reignite a period of military dominance and jeopardize individual rights. Human rights organizations have raised alarms over the implications of assigning military officers to civilian roles, suggesting that it could lead to abuses of power, increased violence against civilians, and a regression in democratic governance. Activists have organized protests outside Parliament in anticipation of the law's passage, gathering the support of various student organizations advocating for a stronger democratic framework. As the government defends the reforms as crucial for national security, civil society is deeply divided over their potential consequences for Indonesia's democratic future. This legislative change marks a significant shift in the balance of power in Indonesia, as military influence in civilian government could challenge the foundations of democracy. Further monitoring and activism from civil society are expected as Indonesians grapple with the implications of this revised law on their everyday lives and governance.