Indonesian youth protest government policies as public discontent grows

Published 1d ago · Latest report 3h ago · Protest

Affects Indonesia · Covered in 2 countries

AI summary41s readNegative

Young Indonesians took to the streets in protest as public discontent grows over the government's economic policies.

Indonesia marked two years under President Prabowo Subianto with street protests led by students and civil society members over high living costs and disaster handling. Public dissatisfaction extends to flagship government initiatives, with a recent survey showing widespread opposition to a major free meals programme. Allies of the administration have begun distancing themselves from the contentious policy as economic pressures mount.

The anniversaryPresident Prabowo Subianto marked 2 years in office amid growing public frustration.
The pollingA research firm found about 62% of the public opposed a signature free meals initiative.
The reactionStudents and civil society members staged street protests across the country this week.

Why it matters

Indonesia is Southeast Asia's largest economy, where soaring living expenses and economic inequality frequently trigger youth-led political activism. Major social welfare policies serve as key barometers for the administration's popular support.

Timeline2

Oct 22A research poll showed that about 62 per cent of the public opposed a signature free meals programme.
Oct 23Students and civil society members took to the streets to protest living costs and disaster handling.

By the numbers2

62%public opposed the programme

2 yrspresident marks in office

How outlets cover it