The right to protest

From Media Indonesia

According to media reports, the Armed Forces faction in the House of Representatives has urged the government to submit a bill on demonstrations to the House. If, after being debated, it is enacted, society will have a guideline on how demonstrations should be conducted.

As a matter of fact, demonstrations are guaranteed in a democratic state, provided they are conducted in an orderly manner. Also in any country in the world, including Europe and South Korea, the right to demonstration is fully guaranteed, meaning that the government does not need to regulate them because democracy gives the people the right to express their interests by way of demonstrations.

However, in our country the government has the right to manage its citizens. In doing so, it should not forget that Indonesia cooperates with many foreign countries and many international bodies. This calls for consideration in the government's actions if cooperation is to be actively maintained.

For example, the issues of human rights, democracy and the environment in Indonesia are being scrutinized. This compels us to think and act cautiously so that our policies do not backfire.

F. PUDYANTO SURADIBROTO

Jakarta