Criminalization of Activists in Indonesia: A Serious Challenge to The Protection of Freedom of Opinion in A Democratic Country

Abstract

The criminalization of activists is a phenomenon that is increasingly prominent in the dynamics of Indonesian democracy. Various cases show that activists who voice criticism of the government, corporations, or public policies often face legal threats, especially through the use of rubber articles such as the Electronic Information and Transaction Act (UU ITE) as well as a number of other criminal provisions. This research aims to analyze the forms of criminalization of activists, identify the causative factors, and examine the impact on freedom of expression as a constitutional right of citizens. This research analyzes the practice of criminalizing activists and its implications for guaranteeing freedom of expression in democratic countries. Based on the results of a legal-normative study conducted through the analysis of laws and regulations, legal doctrines, and studies of several cases of criminalization of activists in Indonesia. This study found that the practice of criminalization not only reflects the weakness of legal protection, but also shows the imbalance in power relations between the state and civil society. The main impact is seen in the increasing culture of fear, limiting the space for public criticism, and eroding the quality of democracy. This research confirms the need for regulatory reform, strengthening law enforcement accountability mechanisms, and civil society support to ensure that freedom of expression remains guaranteed as a fundamental pillar in a democratic state.