Indonesian Workers' Union Presses Eight Demands on May Day 2026

On May Day 2026, the Association of All Indonesian Workers Unions (ASPIRASI) has put forth a robust set of eight demands, underscoring the critical need for state intervention to ensure justice and welfare for Indonesian workers. ASPIRASI President Mirah Sumirat articulated that this day is not merely a celebration but a vital platform for collective struggle, emphasizing that the nation's development is intrinsically linked to the well-being of its workforce. The union's agenda highlights pressing issues that resonate deeply within the Indonesian labor landscape.

The demands address the pervasive problem of mass layoffs, urging the government to prevent companies, including state-owned enterprises, from using efficiency as a guise to dismiss workers. Furthermore, ASPIRASI is calling for the regulation of Artificial Intelligence, a growing concern in the modern workplace, to safeguard workers from potential harm and ensure a collaborative rather than a replacement-oriented human-machine dynamic. This forward-thinking approach acknowledges the inevitable integration of technology while prioritizing the human element.

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Amid global challenges, technological disruption, and economic uncertainty, the state must be present to ensure justice and welfare for all workers.

ASPIRASI's agenda also tackles the precarious nature of work in the digital economy, demanding an end to exploitative partnerships with digital platforms and advocating for clear legal status and equal rights for platform workers. The union is also pushing for the elimination of discriminatory recruitment practices, such as prolonged internships without job security and fair compensation, advocating for a transparent and merit-based system. The welfare of healthcare workers and the expansion of comprehensive social protection for all workers, regardless of formal or informal status, are also central to their demands, reflecting a commitment to universal well-being.

Finally, the call for the swift passage of the Asset Seizure Bill demonstrates a broader concern for national integrity and the fight against corruption, recognizing that recovering assets is crucial for national development. From an Indonesian perspective, these demands are not just about labor rights; they are about building a more just, equitable, and prosperous nation where every worker is valued and protected. The government's response to these demands will be a key indicator of its commitment to the welfare of its people and the sustainable growth of the country.

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There is no justice without workers’ welfare.