Violence Against Journalists on the Rise: A Case study from Indonesia

On March 21, 2025, faqih Rohman Syafei, a journalist, was attacked while covering a protest against the TNI (Tentara Nasional Indonesia, or Indonesian National Military) Law at the West Java Regional Peopel’s Representative Council (DPRD) Building in Bandung City, Indonesia. This incident underscores a disturbing global trend: the increasing vulnerability of journalists covering protests and civil unrest.

The attack on Syafei is not an isolated event.”Intimidated, jailed, abused: Threats against journalists harm us all,” as noted by the UN Secretary-General, highlighting the global implications of such attacks. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers journalists face worldwide, including in countries with democratic traditions.

Context: The TNI Law and Public Discontent

The TNI Law in Indonesia, like similar legislation in other countries, has sparked significant controversy.Critics argue that it grants the military excessive authority and undermines democratic principles. “Laws like the one in Indonesia, or any law perceived to restrict civil liberties or increase government control, are frequently enough the spark that ignites protests,” explains Dr. Sharma, an expert on press freedom. “And where there are protests, there are journalists.”

The core issue is that such laws, or even the threat of them, can be used to impede journalists’ ability to report freely. Vague definitions of terms like “incitement,” “fake news,” or “national security threats” allow governments to silence critical voices by labeling their reporting as dangerous or subversive. This tactic is a powerful tool to control the media narrative and restrict access to information, ultimately enabling corruption, human rights abuses, and other issues.

In the United States, similar concerns have been raised about laws that could potentially restrict press freedom under the guise of national security or combating disinformation. The Espionage Act, for example, has been invoked in cases involving journalists and whistleblowers, raising concerns about its potential to chill investigative reporting.

Implications for Press freedom in the U.S. and Globally

The threats to journalists in the U.S., even with strong constitutional protections, share similarities with those seen in places like Indonesia. “The core issue is the same: the creation of an environment where journalists are intimidated, harassed, or even physically attacked for doing their job,” Dr. Sharma notes.

While the U.S. may not have a formally enshrined military junta, it faces threats like online harassment, legal intimidation, and physical violence at protests. The U.S. Press Freedom Tracker documents numerous incidents of journalists being attacked, detained, or having their equipment damaged while covering protests and other events. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) also provides resources and support for journalists facing threats in the U.S. and around the world.

Another critical similarity is the divisive political climate. “Journalists are frequently enough portrayed as the ‘enemy of the people,’ contributing to a rise in hostility,” Dr. Sharma explains. This rhetoric, often amplified by social media, can incite violence and make journalists targets for abuse.

Addressing Potential Counterarguments

One common counterargument is that protesters have a right to privacy, and journalists sometimes exhibit bias or sensationalize events.Dr. Sharma addresses these concerns directly: “Regarding privacy, in public spaces, journalists reporting on events of public interest generally outweigh individual privacy. this doesn’t mean journalists should disregard ethical guidelines or publish information that could endanger individuals. Responsible journalism is paramount.”

Regarding bias, isolated instances of misconduct should never justify violence against all journalists.Processes for handling journalistic grievances, such as contacting news outlets or filing complaints with press councils, are already in place. Sensationalism should be addressed directly. “The key is to correct specific problems without undermining press freedom as a whole, which is the foundation of an informed society,” Dr. Sharma emphasizes.

In the U.S., organizations like the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) provide ethical guidelines and resources for journalists to ensure accuracy, fairness, and impartiality in their reporting. These guidelines help to maintain public trust and minimize the potential for bias or sensationalism.

Moving Forward: Protecting Journalists and Upholding Press Freedom

To ensure journalists’ safety and protect press freedom, particularly during periods of civil unrest, several vital steps must be taken:

• Robust Protection: Governments must provide adequate protection for journalists, especially during protests. This includes training law enforcement on media freedom and protecting journalists’ capacity to work.
• Swift prosecution: Those who attack journalists, whether physically or online, must be investigated, prosecuted, and brought to justice. Impunity fuels further violence.
• Combat Disinformation: Governments and social media platforms must actively combat disinformation campaigns that target journalists.
• Media Literacy: Promote media literacy programs to educate the public about the role of journalism in a democratic society. This includes media literacy in schools.
• Support Independent Media: Funding and support for independent journalism and media organizations are crucial for balanced and thorough reporting.
• International Cooperation: International organizations must coordinate to monitor and condemn attacks on journalists.

These steps are essential to creating a safe and supportive environment for journalists to do their jobs without fear of reprisal. In the U.S., organizations like the Reporters committee for Freedom of the Press (RCFP) advocate for policies that protect journalists’ rights and access to information.

“Silenced Voices: How the Attack on Journalists in Indonesia Threatens Global Freedom”

“The most critical takeaway is this: The attack on Faqih Rohman Syafei should serve as a global alarm. Every assault on a journalist, whether in Indonesia, the United States, or anywhere else, is an assault on the public’s right to know,” Dr. Sharma concludes.

The message is clear: “defend press freedom as if your own freedom depends on it – as it does.” Supporting journalists, condemning violence against them, and demanding accountability are essential in every society that values transparency, justice, and democracy.