Krytyka Prawa. Niezależne Studia nad Prawem
Critique of the Criminalization of Communism Dissemination in Indonesia: A Lesson from Poland
Bina Nusantara University, Jakarta (Indonesia)
Abstract
This study discusses the criminalization of a communism dissemination in Indonesia. The new Penal Code regards this offence as an offence against national security. Indonesia has a horrible narrative on the communists’ atrocity and their coup attempt in 1965. However, we should reconsider the existence of this offense. This study is a documental study employing a historical legal and a microcomparative law approaches, comparing this communism dissemination offence in Indonesia with the situation in Poland. The results show that the criminalization should be based on legal protection of the public order and should prove the presence of clear and present danger. Finally, the formulation offences must be strict to protect freedom of expression.