Protests Expand Across Europe, Foreign Minister Urges Indonesians to Stay Cautious and Avoid Political Involvement

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir has urged all Indonesian citizens (WNI) to exercise caution and refrain from interfering in the political affairs of European countries in light of the escalating demonstrations occurring across the continent.

“For Indonesian citizens in Europe, we ask them to be careful, look after themselves, and not to get involved in the political matters unfolding there,” Arrmanatha stated at the Pancasila Building, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jakarta, on Thursday (22/10/2026).

The minister noted that the government is closely monitoring developments in Europe.

He urged all Indonesian citizens to stay informed through their respective embassies in European nations.

“Most importantly, they should heed the advice provided by the governments and focus on their duties there, whether they are studying or working,” he emphasized.

Previously reported, the demonstrations that turned violent in France have since spread to several other European countries.

According to The Guardian, protests originating in France have sparked various subsequent actions in other nations.

On October 17, 2026, similar protests were reported in Belgium, Portugal, Albania, Spain, and Italy.

Meanwhile, The Telegraph reported that approximately 550,000 people participated in demonstrations involving the yellow vest movement, trade unions, and student groups.

Of these, about 110,000 demonstrators were in Paris.

The surge of unrest began with student protests that had been ongoing for three weeks.

This movement initially arose in response to teacher shortages and deteriorating conditions in secondary schools in the suburbs of Paris.

Some schools were even set on fire.

Calls via social media subsequently urged demonstrators in various areas to revive the "yellow vest" movement that first emerged in 2018 as a reaction against rising living costs.

The movement then expanded with the involvement of trade unions representing nurses, teachers, farmers, taxi drivers, and environmental activists.