Indonesia Rejects Allegations of Systematic Human Rights Violations in Papua

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia has rejected unilateral allegations regarding suspected systematic human rights violations in Papua, asserting that every credible allegation is handled seriously through national institutions and legal mechanisms, including the independent National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM).

According to a press release from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jakarta on Tuesday, Indonesia conveyed this position while exercising its right of reply during the General Debate of the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, USA, on Monday (28/9). This was in response to statements concerning the situation in Papua made by representatives from the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

It is reported that three state civil officials were killed after distributing livestock aid to the community, a driver transporting basic necessities was killed, and nine women and children were abducted in Mimika.

“Attacks against civilians are not a form of peaceful expression of aspirations. Indonesia is obliged to protect all its citizens, while ensuring that every law enforcement step remains subject to national law and international human rights obligations,” Indonesia stated firmly in its right of reply.

Indonesia reminded that discussions regarding Papua must reflect the full reality of the situation. Civilians, teachers, healthcare workers, and government officials have also fallen victim to violence by armed groups.

Indonesia also emphasised that arrangements for a visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights must be agreed upon between the host country and the Office of the High Commissioner, as applies to all member states, and should not be dictated by other countries or regional organisations.

Indonesia stated it will continue to engage constructively through relevant mechanisms and encourages dialogue and cooperation based on respect for facts and the safety of all civilians.

According to the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA), during the 81st UN General Assembly, the Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Matthew Cooper Wale, called for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit West Papua, stating that reports of human rights violations must be independently verified.