Christian Forum Issues Seven-Point Statement on Papua Humanitarian Crisis

The Indonesian Christian Forum (FUKRI) has issued a seven-point statement regarding the current humanitarian crisis in Papua, urging the government to evaluate the dominance of militaristic approaches and address the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Speaking at a press conference in Central Jakarta, representatives from various church denominations expressed deep concern that the conflict, which has spanned decades, continues to claim lives and create a structural humanitarian crisis. “This shows that the humanitarian crisis in Papua is no longer an incidental issue, but a structural crisis that repeats itself without a dignified resolution,” said Reverend Jacklevyn Frits Manuputty of the Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI).

The forum’s seven-point statement calls for an immediate end to violence by all armed parties, prioritising civilian safety. It urges the government to conduct a thorough evaluation of the security approach, arguing that increased military presence has not resulted in just peace. “Public welfare is not measured by the growing presence of security forces, but by improved quality of education, health services, protection of indigenous rights, respect for customary land, fair economic opportunities, and a sense of security for civilians,” stated Reverend Eliver Radjagoekgoek of the Pentecostal Church Fellowship (PGPI).

FUKRI also highlighted the urgent need to handle IDPs, noting that thousands of civilians remain displaced with limited access to food, education, and healthcare. The forum questioned why the state’s attention to these vulnerable groups remains inadequate while security operations are expanded. Furthermore, the churches reaffirmed that inclusive dialogue is the most dignified path to resolving the conflict, calling on the government to provide space for such efforts without fear or stigma. The statement concluded by urging the state to support the church’s humanitarian mission, asserting that serving the community should not be associated with separatist movements.