Students from Across the Campus in DIY Condemn the Dissolution of Discussions at GIK UGM

YOGYAKARTA - Students from across the Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) expressed concern and condemned the dissolution of a discussion event that took place at the Innovation and Creativity Arena (GIK) of Gadjah Mada University (UGM) on June 15.

M. Nur Fadillah, a representative of cross-campus students in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY), said the incident was a serious concern because it concerned the rights of citizens to discuss, exchange ideas, and express their views peacefully in public spaces.

"As part of the academic community and civil society, we view the space for dialogue, discussion, and exchange of ideas as an important foundation in democratic life. Campus and public spaces must be safe places for every citizen to express their views, discuss critically, and build a common understanding without fear of intimidation or repressive actions," said Fadil, Wednesday, June 17.

According to him, the dissolution of the discussion activity has hindered the democratic rights of students and the public to discuss, exchange ideas, and express aspirations openly.

"We condemn the action of dissolving the discussion carried out by a few individuals. This action not only interferes with the course of activities, but also hinders the democratic rights of students and the public to discuss, exchange ideas, and convey aspirations in a peaceful and open manner," he said.

In addition, his party also urged law enforcement officials to investigate alleged acts of physical violence that occurred in the series of riots at the event. According to him, all forms of violence cannot be justified and must be processed in accordance with applicable laws.

"We urge law enforcement officials to investigate and follow up on the alleged acts of physical violence that occurred in the incident. All forms of violence are not justified and must be processed in accordance with applicable laws to ensure the safety and protection of the civil rights of every citizen," he said.

He assessed that the government and stakeholders needed to continue to open up inclusive and constructive dialogue spaces between students, society, and the government. According to him, such forums are important to accommodate public aspirations while strengthening citizen participation in democratic life.

"We encourage the government and stakeholders to continue to open up space for inclusive and constructive dialogue. Forums like this are important to accommodate public aspirations, strengthen citizen participation, and build healthy communication in democratic life," he said.

He also emphasized that students across campuses in DIY are waiting for the courage of government representatives to return to an open and substantive dialogue forum in Yogyakarta.

"We are waiting for the courage of government representatives to dialogue again constructively and solutif in Yogyakarta. An open dialogue is the best way to bridge differences of opinion and strengthen relations between the government and the community," he continued.

he also called on all elements of society to respect differences of opinion and prioritize dialogue as a solution. According to him, differences of opinion are an inseparable part of democratic life.

"Differences of opinion should be addressed through an argumentative, open, and civilized discussion. Not with intimidation, threats, or actions to dissolve activities. Healthy democracy grows from respect for freedom of expression and freedom of opinion," he said.

Representatives of cross-campus students across DIY hope that all parties can work together to maintain public dialogue spaces so that they remain open, safe, and inclusive for all groups.

"A healthy democracy can only grow through respect for freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and freedom to peacefully express opinions. Therefore, we invite all parties to maintain public dialogue space so that it remains open, safe, and inclusive for all citizens," he concluded.