
Laughing at power: the political significance of Pandji Pragiwaksono's ‘Mens Rea’
Analysis, Politics, SocietyMens Rea is filled with jokes that, in the context of Indonesian stand-up comedy, are often called materi pinggir jurang (cliff-edge material). They are dangeorous jokes, given the increasing risk of criminalisation that accompanies any critical expression in Indonesia.

Indonesian civil society shows resilience in the face of ‘activist hunt’ crackdown
Analysis, Politics, SocietyThe ongoing ‘activist hunt’ is a part of an alarming pattern of growing pressure against civil society in Indonesia. It is part of the larger trend of democratic regression and the shrinking of civic space in Indonesia that seems to have accelerated after Prabowo’s rise to power.

Will the new Military Law bring back Soeharto’s Dual Function?
Analysis, Policies, Politics, SecurityThe sight of the military swarming the streets to prevent student protesters from disrupting a DPR plenary session brought back memories of President Soeharto’s New Order, when soldiers were an integral and oppressive part of Indonesian political and social life.

Can Hizbut Tahrir really be dissolved?
Analysis, Human Rights, Politics, ReligionThe government's recent announcement that it planned to ban Hizbut Tahrir Indonesia (HTI) has won support but also criticism, over fears of growing restrictions on freedom of association and assembly. Eryanto Nugroho writes that whatever happens, only acts, not thoughts and concepts should be banned.


