CWS Encourages Solidarity with West Papua
The report was released around the same time as news sources covered the torture of a Papuan man by Indonesian military forces. The man was held in a water-filled 44-gallon drum with his hands tied behind his back, beaten and attacked with a knife. The incident was widely condemned following the circulation of video footage, resulting in an apology from the Indonesian military and the detention of 13 soldiers.
The Communion of Churches in Indonesia made a statement opposing torture and urging the protection of human rights in Papua.
West Papua has a large military presence and is being exploited for its rich mineral resources. Forests are being felled at an alarming rate and being replaced by large-scale palm oil and other plantations. More than 500,000 Papuans are reported to have lost their lives in the region, heavily controlled by Indonesian military forces.
General Secretary of the Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC), Rev James Bhagwan deplored the treatment of three men tortured by military forces. At last year’s assembly, PCC passed a resolution asking that the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights be allowed entry to West Papua.
PCC which has two West Papuan member churches flies the Morning Star flag of independence and advocates for West Papuan membership in the Pacific Forum.
PCC encourages people to wear red and black on Wednesday as a sign of solidarity with West Papua.
Christian World Service has long advocated for the self-determination of West Papuans and the protection of their human rights.
West Papua Action Aotearoa is a network of groups and individuals concerned about the situation. It promotes educational opportunities and runs campaigns including the boycott of Kwila timber for decking which is largely sourced from the region. For more information contact CWS.
