Democracy Defender Targeted: Amnesty Condemns Online Assaults on Human Rights Activist

The harassment began after Neni posted a TikTok video on 5 May 2025, warning about the dangers of political “buzzers” and their potential threat to democracy and state integrity. Although the video did not name any individual, it was interpreted by some as criticism of Governor Dedi Mulyadi, especially given Neni’s history of both criticizing and appreciating his policies.

On 16 July, Neni’s personal photo appeared in multiple social media accounts officially managed by the West Java Provincial Government, including Diskominfo Jabar, jabarprovgoid, humas_jabar, and jabarsaberhoaks. Amnesty verified a specific post from Diskominfo Jabar’s Instagram account which included a video featuring the governor’s denial of using government funds for buzzers—but also displayed Neni’s image without her knowledge or consent.

Neni reported that all of her social media accounts had since been compromised. She is currently unable to access her WhatsApp and TikTok accounts, limiting her ability to communicate and respond to messages.

According to Amnesty International Indonesia, at least 16 incidents of digital attacks targeting 17 human rights defenders have occurred in the country from January to July 2025. The organization is urging the Indonesian government to take immediate and decisive action to ensure accountability and to safeguard the democratic space for free expression. (Uki Ruknuddin)