Indonesia: Teachers express solidarity with protesting students, reject all forms of violence and anarchism
Education International member organisation the Indonesian Teachers’ Association (PGRI) has issued a statement on the recent violent protests that have swept the country, recognising the legitimate demands of protestors but stressing that these demands must be expressed in a constructive and peaceful manner.
Protests erupted in Jakarta on August 25 in opposition to the lavish perks awarded to members of Parliament while most citizens struggle with the rising cost of living and unemployment. Recent austerity measures including cuts to education, health and other services further inflamed the situation. Students, workers, and rights groups led the mobilisation.
The demonstrations escalated to nearly 50 cities across the country after a video emerged of a police vehicle hitting and killing a motorcycle delivery driver during a clash with protestors. Incidents of rioting and looting were reported in some places.
According to Human Rights Watch, over 3,000 people have been detained during the anti-government protests. Ten people have been killed, 1,000 injured, and 20 are reported missing.
Teachers call for peaceful action
Extending “moral support, empathy, and solidarity as fellow citizens toward students and all elements of society who express their aspirations for a better future of the nation”, the National Board of PGRI urged “all PGRI members, teachers, and education personnel to ensure that the expression of aspirations is carried out constructively, and to firmly reject all forms of violence and anarchism”.
PGRI leaders stressed that addressing the nation’s challenges relies on fair and consistent dialogue.
Union leaders also thanked students and all segments of society for their concern for education and teachers. PGRI called on the government to prioritise education funding and strengthen the recognition of teacher certification in the draft National Education Bill currently being discussed in Parliament.
Government response
In response to the protests, President Prabowo Subianto committed to cutting lawmaker’s perks, including the substantial housing allowances of 50 million rupiah ($3,075) that is almost 10 times the minimum wage in Jakarta.
In addition, an investigation has been opened into the death of 21-year-old delivery driver Affan Kurniawan, with one police officer fired so far.
