<![CDATA[Repressive actions by law enforcement officers against the press is an issue that has persisted in Indonesia, raising serious concerns about the state of journalistic freedom in the country. Legal protections for journalists, as stipulated in the Press Law, have not provided adequate security, and the press, which embodies the sovereignty of the people, has not achieved the freedom and independence it was promised after the Reformation. This trajectory signals a broader and troubling decline in democracy. Serving as the eyes, ears, and voice of the people, the press faces mounting pressure in carrying out its journalistic work, a pressure made worse by the numerous cases of violence originating from the police, the very pillar of law enforcement. Therefore, this study examines applicable laws and regulations on the issue, using a normative juridical approach. Addressing the disharmony between police duties and press rights requires a shared perception of the Press Law. This study makes three recommendations. First, Article 8 of the Press Law should be amended. Second, the Indonesian National Police should issue a regulation of the Chief of the Indonesian National Police governing the authority of police officers in relation to journalistic activities. Third, the Press Council should take an active role in advocating for journalists whose press freedom is restricted]]>
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