The Workers Union Confederation Of Manpower And...

Indonesia contains over 60 registered labor unions, along with numerous more that are not formally recognized by the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower and Transmigrations (Ismar). Even though labor unions have existed in Indonesia for many years, it wasn’t until President Suharto stepped down from power in 1998 that labor unions were able to gain strength and fully progress. Throughout the years they have increased in both size and number and have continuously fought for higher wages and for better workers’ rights. Out of all the registered unions, there are four in particular that have the biggest influence. The first is the All–Indonesian Workers’ Union Confederation (KSPSI). This is the oldest union and the only one that was allowed for a†¦show more content†¦However, the Trade Union/Labour Union Act No.21/2000 recognizes and protects the workers’ rights to form a labor union. The law declares that at least 10 members are required in order to form a union, and they must register with the Ministry of Manpower in order to be recognized. The law also imposes criminal sanctions on the employer if they prevent an employee from forming or becoming a part of a labor union, terminate an employee for simply being a part of a labor union, conduct an anti-labor union campaign, or intimidate in any way. The rights of the trade/labor unions include the right to formulate collective labor agreements with an employer, to represent employees in work-related disputes, and represent employees in labor-related institutions. They are also able to participate in counsels and other activities for the welfare of the employees, and to conduct other activities in accordance with the prevailing laws and regulations. Unions also have the right to strike as long as it is in an orderly and peaceful way, and they give a seven days’ warning to the employer and the Ministry of Manpower (Emmerson). Although rights have been given to labor/tra de unions there is still large labor unrest among workers that calls for strikes. Sometimes the gathering for these strikes are so large that cities such as Jakarta end up shutting down for days, which leads to small economic losses (Chen). However, the strikes can be effective as they