Civil Society Coalition Rejects Draft Regulation on TNI's Counter-Terrorism Role

Concerns Over Democracy and Human Rights

A coalition of civil society organizations, comprising human rights groups, legal aid organizations, environmental organizations, academics, and journalist organizations, has expressed strong opposition to the draft Presidential Regulation (Perpres) on the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) role in counter-terrorism. The coalition argues that the regulation is problematic both formally and substantively.

Legal and Procedural Objections

The coalition contends that involving TNI in security tasks through a presidential regulation contradicts MPR Decree No. VII/2000 and the TNI Law, which stipulate that TNI's assistance in security tasks should be regulated through a law, not a presidential regulation. This concern highlights the potential threats to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

Implications and Concerns

The draft regulation, intended for consultation with the House of Representatives (DPR), has raised significant concerns among civil society organizations. They fear that the regulation could lead to an over-militarization of security measures and undermine existing legal frameworks designed to protect human rights and maintain democratic principles.