ABSTRACT
The dissolution of the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) and Hizbut Tahrir Indonesia (HTI) through Law No. 16/2017 introduced a new dimension to the discourse on democracy and human rights in Indonesia. This study aims to examine the dissolution mechanisms of these two mass organisations and their implications for upholding democratic values and human rights in the country. Through comprehensive in-depth interviews and an analytical framework grounded in democratic theories, the study reveals a connection between the formulation and implementation of Law No. 16/2017—targeted at disbanding FPI and HTI—and the decline in Indonesia's democracy index. The findings suggest that this regulation restricts freedom of expression and hinders the broader implementation of human rights. Additionally, the study highlights the need for the government to evaluate the enforcement of this law to ensure it aligns with democratic principles and the protection of human rights.
