The Flawed Logic of State Threats: Indonesia Classifies LGBTQ Culture as Non-Military Danger

The Indonesian government's decision to classify lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) culture as a non-military threat is drawing criticism for its flawed logic. The Presidential Regulation on the 2025-2029 General State Defense Policy, issued last year, has resurfaced, sparking debate amid the nation's economic struggles.

Critics argue that the government is conflating the moral views of the majority with genuine threats to state security. Unlike terrorism or cyberattacks, which have clear capacities and impacts on national sovereignty, territorial integrity, or security, LGBTQ culture lacks such measurable assessments. The regulation's ambiguity over what constitutes a threat, whether it's the existence of LGBTQ individuals, their expression, or their pursuit of equal rights, could lead to the suppression of media reporting and civil society advocacy.

While acknowledging the conservative views held by a majority of Indonesians, the government is cautioned against codifying these social realities into national defense doctrine. The article suggests that this policy serves as political accommodation for conservative groups, offering an easy way for the government to appear responsive to public sentiment amidst widespread concerns about the economy, corruption, and public services. This move reinforces existing institutionalized discrimination, with numerous local ordinances already targeting the LGBTQ community.