West Papua

The indigenous peoples in West Papua suffer from human rights violations in the decades long lasting political and economical conflict there. West Papua refers to the western half of the New Guinea island. It is comprised of the six Indonesian provinces: Papua, Papua Barat, Papua Tengah, Papua Pegunungan, Papua Selatan, Papua Barat Daya.

HRM Report “Destroy them first… discuss human rights later” exposes Indonesian military attacks on indigenous villages in West Papua

Human Rights Monitor’s latest 49-page report delves deep into Indonesian forces’ systematic attacks on indigenous West Papua villages, highlighting potential crimes against humanity. Satellite imagery reveals 206 destroyed buildings and the displacement of over 2,000 indigenous Ngalum locals. With international attention urgently needed, the report questions Indonesia’s compliance with international humanitarian law.

Foto: West Papua National Committee/KNPB

Papuan activist Victor Yeimo found guilty of treason after Prosecutor’s appeal – longer sentence imposed

On 5 July 2023, two months after judges at the Jayapura District Court sentenced Papuan activist and human rights defender Victor Yeimo to eight months imprisonment for other charges but not for treason, a panel of judges of the Jayapura High Court in its appeal decision, stated that Mr Yeimo was proven to have committed treason and sentenced him to one year in prison.

Impunity: Military tribunals in West Papua highlight fail to establish justice and accountability in Indonesia

Recent military tribunals related to the enforced disappearance and execution of indigenous Papuans in the regencies Intan Jaya and Mimika illustrate the pressing issue of accountability and impunity in West Papua. The failure to detain defendants and the leniency of sentences in cases of violence against civilians perpetuate a climate of impunity.

UN Special Adviser on Genocide concerned about human rights situation in West Papua

On 4 July 2023, UN Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide, Ms. Alice Wairimu Nderitu, (see photo on top, source: screenshot) in her opening remarks during the 22nd Meeting, 53rd Regular Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, expressed concerns regarding the human rights situation in the easternmost provinces in Indonesia.

Criminalisation of HRDs Fatia M. and Haris A. – Trial is ongoing and access restricted

Mr Haris Azhar (Founder of Lokataru) and Ms Fatia Maulidiyanti (Coordinator of KontraS) have been facing legal proceedings for alleged defamation against Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Mr Luhut Binsar Panjaitan, since 2021. The trial of the criminalisation case against Fatia and Haris entered the stage of examining the reporting witness, namely Mr Luhut Binsar Panjaitan, on 8 June 2023.

Three Papuans sentenced for treason – Amnesty International calls for immediate release of defendants

On 14 June 2023, judges at the Sorong District Court found the defendants, Mr Elias Wetipo, Mr Marthen Samonsabra Oiwari, and Mr. Yoran Pahabol, guilty of treasonous acts. They were sentenced to prison for delivering peaceful speeches and displaying banners with the Morning Star symbol at the airport in Sorong on 13 September 2022.

Three Papuans found guilty of treason and sentenced to two years

Judges at the Makassar District Court in Manokwari found three Papuan defendants guilty of treason and criminal conspiracy against the state as stipulated under Article 106 of the Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP) and Article 110 KUHP. Mr Kostan Karlos Bonay (85 years), Mr Andreas Sanggenafa (65 years), and Mr Hellesvred Bezalle Soleman Waropen (55 years) were sentenced to two years imprisonment each.