Tensions Rise over TNI Law Revision

Jakarta, Indonesia – Discussions surrounding the revision of Indonesia’s TNI (Tentara Nasional Indonesia) Law have become increasingly contentious. On March 17, 2025, DPR (Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat) Speaker Puan Maharani addressed concerns regarding a recent meeting between the DPR and the government at the Fairmont hotel in Jakarta, where the TNI Law revision was a key topic.The meeting, intended to foster collaboration on the bill, was disrupted by protestors, highlighting the deep divisions surrounding the proposed changes.

Maharani alluded to an “occupation incident” during a previous TNI Bill meeting, stating, “Friends also know that there are those who occupy or enter without permission.” She criticized the disruption as inappropriate, comparing it to unauthorized entry into a private residence. “So indeed, if in any event, it is indeed indeed than entered without permission, it is not allowed, it is not worth doing. It goes into a house that is not his home,” she said.

The incident underscores the sensitivity of the TNI Law revision,wich aims to address several key areas,including:

• Strengthening the modernization of the main weapon system and the domestic defense industry.
• Clarifying the limits and mechanisms for involving the TNI in non-military tasks.
• Improving the welfare and social security for personnel.

However, critics fear that the revisions could lead to an expansion of the military’s role in civilian affairs, possibly undermining democratic governance and civilian oversight.

Protests and Concerns Over “Dwifungsi”

The Fairmont Hotel incident on March 15, 2025, involved members of a security sector reform coalition who demanded the TNI Bill Panja meeting be halted, arguing that the closed-door nature of the discussion lacked openness.”We are from the Reform Coalition of the observer security sector in defense, stop, as it is indeed not in accordance with this,” said Andrie, one of the protestors.

The protestors voiced concerns that the TNI Bill could revive the “dwifungsi” (dual function) concept, a controversial doctrine from the Suharto era that allowed the military to play a meaningful role in both security and socio-political affairs. Critics fear that expanding the TNI’s role in civilian life could lead to a resurgence of authoritarianism and a weakening of democratic institutions.

This concern resonates with past parallels in other countries, including the United States, where strict legal and cultural norms have traditionally limited the military’s involvement in domestic law enforcement and governance. The Posse Comitatus Act, for example, generally prohibits the use of the U.S.military for domestic law enforcement purposes, reflecting a long-standing commitment to civilian control of the military.

Key Objectives and Potential implications

The Indonesian government frames the TNI Law revision as a necesary step to modernize its military and enhance national security.Key objectives include acquiring advanced weaponry, bolstering the domestic defense industry, and improving the welfare of military personnel. However, the potential implications of thes changes are far-reaching and warrant careful consideration, especially from a U.S. perspective, where the separation of military and civilian functions is deeply ingrained.

One of the most significant concerns is the potential for the TNI to become involved in domestic law enforcement, a role that is typically reserved for civilian police forces in democratic societies. In the United States, the use of the military for domestic law enforcement is strictly limited by the Posse Comitatus Act, reflecting a fear of military overreach and the erosion of civil liberties. The debate in Indonesia mirrors similar concerns about maintaining a clear division between military and civilian roles.

Another key objective of the TNI Law revision is to clarify the limits and mechanisms for involving the TNI in non-military tasks. While proponents argue that this is necessary to address national emergencies and other exceptional circumstances, critics worry that it could open the door to a broader and more intrusive role for the military in civilian affairs. This is notably concerning given Indonesia’s history of military involvement in politics and governance.

The U.S. experience offers valuable lessons in this regard. While the U.S. military has been called upon to assist in disaster relief and other domestic emergencies, these deployments are typically limited in scope and duration, and are subject to strict civilian oversight. The key is to ensure that any involvement of the military in civilian affairs is carefully defined and circumscribed, with clear lines of authority and accountability.

Addressing Potential Counterarguments

Supporters of the TNI Law revision argue that it is indeed essential to address indonesia’s unique security challenges, including terrorism, separatism, and maritime piracy. They contend that the TNI needs greater flexibility and resources to effectively respond to these threats, and that the revisions are necessary to modernize the military and improve its capabilities.

Though, critics counter that these security challenges can be addressed through other means, such as strengthening civilian law enforcement agencies, improving intelligence gathering, and promoting economic development. They argue that expanding the military’s role in civilian affairs is not only needless but also counterproductive, as it could undermine democratic institutions, erode public trust, and create opportunities for corruption and abuse.

A key concern is the potential for the TNI to become involved in political disputes and to use its power to suppress dissent. This is particularly relevant in the context of Indonesia’s upcoming elections, where the military could be tempted to intervene in support of certain candidates or parties. The U.S. experience demonstrates the importance of maintaining strict political neutrality within the military and ensuring that it remains accountable to civilian authority.

To mitigate these risks, it is indeed essential to establish clear legal limits on the military’s role in civilian affairs, strengthen civilian oversight mechanisms, and promote openness in military spending and operations. It is indeed also crucial to foster a culture of respect for human rights and the rule of law within the military, and to hold accountable those who violate these principles.

Recent Developments and Practical Applications

Recent developments suggest that the Indonesian government is taking the concerns of civil society groups seriously. There have been indications of a willingness to engage in broader consultations and incorporate safeguards to prevent the resurgence of “dwifungsi.” However, the details of these safeguards are crucial, including a clear legal framework that defines the scope and is under civilian oversight.

One practical application of these safeguards would be to establish an independent oversight body with the power to investigate allegations of military misconduct and to hold the TNI accountable for its actions. This body should be composed of civilian experts and representatives from civil society, and should have the authority to access military records and interview military personnel.

Another vital step would be to promote transparency in military spending and operations. This could be achieved by publishing detailed facts about the military budget, procurement contracts, and operational deployments.This would allow the public to scrutinize the military’s activities and to hold it accountable for its use of resources.

Moreover, it is indeed essential to foster open dialog between the government, the military, civil society, and the public. This could be achieved through public forums, workshops, and other events that bring together stakeholders to discuss the TNI Law revision and its potential implications. This would help to build consensus and to ensure that the revisions reflect the needs and concerns of all Indonesians.

Conclusion: Balancing Security and Democracy

The TNI Law revision presents a complex challenge for Indonesia, requiring a delicate balance between national security and democratic governance. While modernizing the military and enhancing its capabilities is critically important, it is indeed equally crucial to safeguard democratic institutions, protect civil liberties, and ensure civilian control of the military.

The U.S. experience offers valuable lessons in this regard.By maintaining a clear division between military and civilian roles, establishing strong civilian oversight mechanisms, and promoting transparency and accountability, the U.S. has been able to build a strong and effective military while preserving its democratic values.

Indonesia can learn from these lessons as it navigates the TNI Law revision process. By carefully considering the potential implications of the proposed changes,engaging in broad consultations with stakeholders,and incorporating robust safeguards,Indonesia can ensure that the revisions strengthen its security without undermining its democratic principles.

the TNI Law revision is a pivotal moment for Indonesia. By carefully navigating this process, Indonesia can secure its future, preserving both its national security and its democratic values, while upholding its sovereign state.

Decoding the TNI Law Revision: Balancing Indonesia’s Security and Democratic Future

Indonesia stands at a critical juncture as it considers revisions to its TNI law, a move that has ignited a national debate about the role of the military in a democratic society. The proposed changes aim to modernize the armed forces and enhance national security, but they also raise concerns about the potential for military overreach and the erosion of civilian control. This situation mirrors similar debates in the United States, where the balance between national security and civil liberties is a constant subject of discussion.

The core of the controversy lies in the potential expansion of the TNI’s (Tentara Nasional Indonesia) role beyond customary defense duties. Critics fear a resurgence of the “dwifungsi” doctrine, reminiscent of the Suharto era, which allowed the military to exert significant influence in both security and socio-political spheres.This concept is fundamentally at odds with the principles of civilian control that underpin democratic governance in the U.S. and other Western nations.

To understand the complexities of this issue,it’s essential to examine the key areas of the TNI law revision and their potential implications.

• Key Areas of the TNI Law Revision

  The proposed revisions encompass several critical areas:

  • Modernization of Weapon Systems: The government seeks to upgrade the TNI’s arsenal and bolster the domestic defense industry. While a modern military is essential for national security, the allocation of resources and the potential for corruption are significant concerns. The U.S. experience with defense spending highlights the need for transparency and accountability in military procurement.
  • involvement in Non-Military Tasks: The revisions aim to clarify the circumstances under which the TNI can be involved in non-military tasks, such as disaster relief and counter-terrorism operations. Though, critics worry that this could lead to a blurring of lines between military and civilian responsibilities, potentially undermining the authority of civilian institutions.
  • Personnel Welfare: Improving the welfare and social security of military personnel is a laudable goal, but it must be balanced against other national priorities, such as education and healthcare. The U.S. military faces similar challenges in providing adequate compensation and benefits to its personnel while managing a vast and complex budget.