5,442 Indonesian Citizens in France, No Casualties

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) confirmed that no Indonesian citizens (WNI - Warga Negara Indonesia) have fallen victim to the widespread wave of demonstrations across Europe. Kemlu's Director for the Protection of Indonesian Citizens, Heni Hamidah, stated that 5,442 Indonesian nationals are registered in France, and as of Thursday (10/22/2026), none have been injured or affected.

Kemlu also emphasized that an official travel warning has not yet been issued for the countries affected by the protests. However, Kemlu urged all Indonesian citizens to heighten vigilance, stay away from demonstration sites and crowds, adjust travel plans in anticipation of transportation disruptions, and follow instructions from local authorities.

For Indonesian citizens requiring emergency assistance, Kemlu provided hotlines for the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI - Kedutaan Besar Republik Indonesia) in Paris at +33-6-2112-2109 and KBRI Rome at +39-338-954-2333.

Protests Spread Across Four Countries

The wave of protests against rising living costs reached its peak on Saturday (10/17/2026). The movement began as protests by high school and university students over education quality on September 18, 2026, before expanding into a 'convergence of struggles': the Italian General Confederation of Labour (CGIL), the Yellow Vests movement, laborers, left-wing groups, and climate activists all took to the streets.

Demonstrations were recorded in France (Paris, Nancy, Limoges, Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux), Belgium (Brussels, Liège), Italy (Milan, Rome, Turin, Bologna), and Portugal (Lisbon). In France, around 550,000 people took to the streets according to the Ministry of the Interior (Kemendagri - Kementerian Dalam Negeri), while the CGT union claimed 800,000, including 110,000 in Paris. Between 1,200 and 2,500 people were arrested, and 150 police officers were reported injured. In Belgium, 195 people were arrested amid tear gas and water cannons; in Italy, clashes broke out at Piazza del Duomo, Milan, and Rome. Around 1,500 shops were damaged and the Limoges town hall was set on fire. The French government even imposed curfews in several cities on October 19, 2026.

The triggers were varied: soaring living and fuel costs, shortages of teachers and educational funding, and declining public services. In Italy, the protests were framed as 'No Meloni Day' and anti-war demonstrations, while in Portugal, protesters highlighted housing prices that had doubled since 2017. Some demonstrations culminated in riots, looting, and arson by opportunistic rioters.

Indonesians Barred from Joining Protests

Minister of Foreign Affairs (Menlu) Arrmanatha Nasir emphasized that Indonesian citizens are prohibited from participating in demonstrations or interfering in local political affairs in their host countries. Indonesian nationals were instructed to focus on their respective study and work activities.

This advisory serves as a practical guide for thousands of Indonesian citizens in Europe: avoid crowds, monitor developments through official sources, prepare contingency travel plans, and immediately contact the KBRI hotline in emergency situations.