A coalition of university students and civil society groups demonstrated at the National Monument on Saturday, March 7, 2026, opposing Indonesia’s involvement in the Board of Peace (BoP), potential TNI troop deployment to Gaza, and trade relations with the United States.
Protest Rooted in Indonesia’s Founding Principles
Shofwan Al Banna Choiruzzad, a lecturer in International Relations at the University of Indonesia, explained that the protest stemmed from Indonesia’s foundational principles, which reject colonialism. According to Shofwan, “Indonesia was established as a declaration against the colonial world order, as outlined in the preamble of the 1945 Constitution, which states that colonialism must be abolished because it is incompatible with humanity and justice.”
The demonstration included representatives from universities such as Universitas Indonesia and Universitas Sumatera Utara, as well as civil society organizations, academics, and pro-Palestinian groups.
Criticism of Foreign Policy
Shofwan criticized the government’s foreign policies, alleging a divergence from constitutional mandates and accusing Indonesia of aligning with the interests of global powers. He stated, “Today, the constitutional mandate has been violated by policies that show subservience to the imperialist forces of the United States under Donald Trump and Netanyahu.”
The coalition presented seven demands to the government and the House of Representatives (DPR).
Key Demands of the Coalition
The protesters demanded a review of Indonesia’s membership in the BoP, with withdrawal contingent on the organization’s failure to support Palestinian independence or halt violations of international law in Gaza. They also rejected the potential deployment of TNI troops to Gaza under the BoP mandate, particularly if the mission involved demilitarization, fearing it could position Indonesia as a tool of occupation.
Further demands included condemnation of US-Israel military attacks on Iran, evaluation of Indonesia-US trade agreements, prevention of Indonesia from supporting global imperialism, promotion of social justice and economic sovereignty, and solidarity for Palestine. The protesters urged all segments of Indonesian society to unite in humanitarian solidarity against imperialism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Board of Peace?
The Board of Peace (BoP) is an organization to which Indonesia currently belongs, and whose membership is being questioned by the protesters.
What are the protesters’ concerns regarding TNI deployment to Gaza?
The coalition opposes sending Indonesian troops to Gaza under the BoP framework, especially if the mission includes demilitarization, as they fear it could produce Indonesia a tool of occupation.
What did the protesters say about Indonesia-US trade agreements?
The coalition demanded a review of all trade agreements with the United States, claiming they are skewed and disadvantage national interests.
How might these protests influence Indonesia’s future foreign policy decisions regarding the Board of Peace, potential military deployments, and trade relations?
