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Indonesia Enforces New Ban on Extramarital Sex That Applies to Tourists

Prosecution can occur only if a spouse, parent or child files a complaint.

Overview

  • A revised criminal code now in force nationwide outlaws sex outside marriage and explicitly covers foreign visitors, including those traveling to Bali.
  • Penalties include up to one year in prison for extramarital sex and up to six months for unmarried couples who live together.
  • Authorities pursue cases only after a complaint from a spouse, parent or child, reducing the likelihood of random checks or hotel raids.
  • Germany’s foreign office advises caution about public statements, noting new penalties of up to three years for insulting state leaders and up to five years for blasphemy.
  • Indonesia’s tourism industry and Human Rights Watch criticize the measures as harmful to recovery and incompatible with international human-rights standards.