Telling West Papua" No 4
From Sister Susan Connelly. This two page handout attached
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Wednesday, September 30, 2026
1) Police disperse peaceful USTJ Student Protest in Jayapura with tear gas – Three students reportedly detained
2) TNI identifies OPM figure killed in Intan Jaya clash
3) PM Wale raises West Papua concerns at UNGA
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1) Police disperse peaceful USTJ Student Protest in Jayapura with tear gas – Three students reportedly detained
On 30 September 2026, Indonesian police intervened in a student protest at the Jayapura University of Science and Technology (USTJ) campus in Padang Bulan, Abepura District, Jayapura City, Papua Province. Hundreds of students reportedly participated in the peaceful political protest, during which they raised the Morning Star flag and delivered speeches concerning West Papua’s political history and the right to self-determination.
Following the events, police personnel entered the university grounds and reportedly fired dozens of tear gas canisters to disperse the gathering (see photos below, source: independent HRD). Preliminary information indicates that police officers detained three USTJ students, identified as Mr Enias Enembe, Mr Mikael Obaipa and Mr Apniel Jagani. The place of detention is not known at the time of reporting.
Hundreds of USTJ students gathered on the university campus in Padang Bulan on 30 September 2026, to commemorate and critically discuss political developments concerning West Papua in 1962. During the protest, students raised a Morning Star flag on a flagpole inside the campus grounds and displayed additional Morning Star flags as well as a flag associated with the Free Aceh Movement (GAM). Students delivered political speeches and displayed banners calling for international attention to the human rights situation in West Papua and for self-determination.
According to Jubi, dozens of officers from the Jayapura City Police entered the USTJ campus while the demonstration was underway. Police deployed a water-cannon vehicle and riot-control personnel (see video below: source: independent HRD). At that stage, students continued delivering political speeches and stated that they intended to keep the Morning Star flag flying until sunset. The situation subsequently escalated when police officers entered the university grounds and fired dozens of tear gas canisters to disperse the students.
Following the events, police reportedly detained Mr Enias Enembe, Mr Mikael Obaipa and Mr Apniel Jagani in connection with the protest. Their current place of detention remained unclear, with sources indicating that they may have been taken either to the Abepura Sector Police Station or the Jayapura City Police Headquarters. The legal basis for the detention is currently not known.
Human rights and legal analysis
The events raise serious concerns regarding the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, protected under Articles 19 and 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Indonesia ratified the ICCPR through Law No. 12/2005. These guarantees apply to political expression, including expression that challenges government policies or advances controversial political positions.
Under international human rights law, peaceful assemblies may be subject only to restrictions that satisfy the requirements of legality, legitimate purpose, necessity and proportionality. The UN Human Rights Committee has emphasised that states have obligations not merely to refrain from unjustified interference but to facilitate peaceful assemblies and protect participants. Dispersal, arrest or other sanctions against participants therefore require specific and compelling justification.
The political content of the USTJ protest, including advocacy concerning self-determination and the display of the Morning Star flag does not remove the activity from the protection afforded to political expression under international human rights law. Restrictions cannot be justified merely because authorities disagree with the political message being expressed. Whether individual conduct falls outside the protection of peaceful assembly depends on the actual behaviour concerned, particularly whether participants engage in violence, rather than simply on the political position they advocate.
The deployment and use of tear gas inside university grounds requires particular scrutiny. Law-enforcement authorities must seek to facilitate peaceful assemblies and should resort to dispersal only where this is justified under applicable human rights standards. Any use of force must comply with the principles of legality, necessity, proportionality, precaution and accountability. The available information does not indicate that the students were engaging in violence immediately before police reportedly fired tear gas.
Indonesian domestic law also recognises freedom of public expression. Law No. 9 of 1998 on Freedom to Express Opinions in Public remains in force and provides the domestic statutory framework governing public expression. Indonesia has additionally informed the UN Human Rights Committee that freedom of assembly, association and expression is constitutionally guaranteed under Article 28E(3) of the 1945 Constitution, alongside relevant protections under Law No. 39 of 1999 on Human Rights.
If the reported detention of Mr Enias Enembe, Mr Mikael Obaipa and Mr Apniel Jagani is confirmed, the authorities must immediately disclose their whereabouts and legal status. Article 9 ICCPRprohibits arbitrary arrest and detention and requires that arrested persons be informed, at the time of arrest, of the reasons for their arrest and promptly informed of any charges. They must also have an effective opportunity to challenge the lawfulness of their detention and obtain access to legal assistance.
Police personnel enter the USTJ Campus with water cannons and teargas, 30 September 2026
Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-137-2026
Location: Jl. Sosial Padang Bulan, Hedam, Kec. Abepura, Kota Jayapura, Papua 99352, Indonesia (-2.6051992, 140.6573053) USTJ Campus, Jayapura
Region: Indonesia > Papua > Jayapura > Abepura
Total number of victims: 3
Document ID: HRM-CAS-137-2026
Location: Jl. Sosial Padang Bulan, Hedam, Kec. Abepura, Kota Jayapura, Papua 99352, Indonesia (-2.6051992, 140.6573053) USTJ Campus, Jayapura
Region: Indonesia > Papua > Jayapura > Abepura
Total number of victims: 3
| # | Number of Victims | Name, Details | Gender | Age | Group Affiliation | Violations |
| 1. | 1 | Enias Enembe | male | adult | Indigenous Peoples, Student | arbitrary detention |
| 2. | 1 | Mikael Obaipa | male | adult | Indigenous Peoples, Student | arbitrary detention |
| 3. | 1 | Apniel Jagani | male | adult | Indigenous Peoples, Student | arbitrary detention |
Perpetrator: Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces > Indonesian Police > POLRES
Perpetrator details: Polresta Jayapura
Issues: indigenous peoples, security force violenceSources:
Jubi
Suara Papua
Related Cases:
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2) TNI identifies OPM figure killed in Intan Jaya clash
September 29, 2026 22:33 GMT+700
Timika (ANTARA) - Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) confirmed that a figure of the Papua Liberation Army/Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM), namely Hermanus Hogajau, also known as Pontianus Hogajau, was killed in an exchange of fire with Indonesian military personnel in Agisiga Subdistrict, Intan Jaya District, Central Papua.
In an official statement received in Timika on Tuesday, Commander of the Joint Regional Defense Command III Lt Gen Lucky Avianto said Hermanus and three of his men, allegedly members of the TPNPB-OPM, were killed in an armed clash with personnel from the 315 Garuda Infantry Battalion Special Team and the Taipur Team of the Habema Joint Operations Command.
The clash occurred in Agisiga Subdistrict in the early hours of Friday (Sept 25).
Besides Hermanus, who acts as the TPNPB-OPM Kodap III Balamai Dulla commander, TNI has identified three members, namely Malobega Hogajau, Eselon Hogajau, and Aguni Hogajau.
Lucky alleged that Hermanus is a prominent and violent OPM figure and that the three others were suspects in several violent crimes, particularly alleged human rights abuses in Intan Jaya, including the rape of village women and health workers, robbery of people's property, agricultural produce and livestock, abduction of children and women, and the burning of churches and schools.
Lucky said Hermanus did not hesitate to injure or even kill anyone who refused to comply with their demands.
According to the statement, Hermanus was the first to fire hundreds of live rounds with a machine gun at TNI personnel.
The personnel from the 315 Garuda Infantry Battalion and the Taipur Team of the Habema Joint Operations Command had detected and anticipated the TPNPB-OPM's plan to enter residential areas in 10 villages of Agisiga Subdistrict.
Lucky said the Indonesian Military and Police would continue efforts to pursue and arrest perpetrators of alleged human rights abuses in Papua.
Indonesian Military would take firm action in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, with Rules of Engagement serving as a guiding principle to ensure that all actions by personnel remained professional and upheld the law and human rights.
Related news: TNIcommander says Papua separatists must be defeated
Related news: TNI reports four OPM members killed in Central Papua clash
Related news: TNI orders air evacuation for OPM victim's widow in Papua
In an official statement received in Timika on Tuesday, Commander of the Joint Regional Defense Command III Lt Gen Lucky Avianto said Hermanus and three of his men, allegedly members of the TPNPB-OPM, were killed in an armed clash with personnel from the 315 Garuda Infantry Battalion Special Team and the Taipur Team of the Habema Joint Operations Command.
The clash occurred in Agisiga Subdistrict in the early hours of Friday (Sept 25).
Besides Hermanus, who acts as the TPNPB-OPM Kodap III Balamai Dulla commander, TNI has identified three members, namely Malobega Hogajau, Eselon Hogajau, and Aguni Hogajau.
Lucky alleged that Hermanus is a prominent and violent OPM figure and that the three others were suspects in several violent crimes, particularly alleged human rights abuses in Intan Jaya, including the rape of village women and health workers, robbery of people's property, agricultural produce and livestock, abduction of children and women, and the burning of churches and schools.
Lucky said Hermanus did not hesitate to injure or even kill anyone who refused to comply with their demands.
According to the statement, Hermanus was the first to fire hundreds of live rounds with a machine gun at TNI personnel.
The personnel from the 315 Garuda Infantry Battalion and the Taipur Team of the Habema Joint Operations Command had detected and anticipated the TPNPB-OPM's plan to enter residential areas in 10 villages of Agisiga Subdistrict.
Lucky said the Indonesian Military and Police would continue efforts to pursue and arrest perpetrators of alleged human rights abuses in Papua.
Indonesian Military would take firm action in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, with Rules of Engagement serving as a guiding principle to ensure that all actions by personnel remained professional and upheld the law and human rights.
Related news: TNIcommander says Papua separatists must be defeated
Related news: TNI reports four OPM members killed in Central Papua clash
Related news: TNI orders air evacuation for OPM victim's widow in Papua
Translator: Bayu Prasetyo
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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3) PM Wale raises West Papua concerns at UNGA
September 30, 2026 _ EMA GANIVATU
SOLOMON Islands Prime Minister Mathew Wale has urged Indonesia to allow a long-awaited United Nations human rights visit to West Papua, telling the UN General Assembly that persistent reports of abuses must be independently verified.
Addressing the Assembly’s decolonisation agenda in New York, Wale linked the issue to wider Pacific calls for self-determination and described West Papuans as “our Melanesian brothers and sisters”.
“Leaving no one behind demands that we complete the unfinished work of decolonisation,” he said. Solomon Islands, he added, continued to support the right to self-determination of the Kanak people of New Caledonia and the Maohi Nui people of French Polynesia.
Wale said the UN decolonisation process “must offer more than hope” and provide practical pathways for people in Non-Self-Governing Territories to determine their political future and development aspirations.
Turning to West Papua, he stressed that the Solomon Islands respected Indonesia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and valued its friendship with the Indonesian government and people. “It is precisely because of that friendship that we speak with candour,” Wale said.
“Reports of human rights violations in West Papua have persisted far too long. They must be independently verified, not left in dispute,” he said.
Wale renewed the Pacific Islands Forum leaders’ call for Indonesia to facilitate, without further delay, a visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to West Papua.
“Such a visit is an act of confidence between friends, and an affirmation that there is nothing to fear from the light,” he said.
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Tuesday, September 29, 2026
1) Vanuatu raises West Papua rights, Kanaky decolonisation, Matthew and Hunter dispute at UN
2) Different approaches to Papua’s problems are blocking dialogue
3) The Legal and Human Rights Department of the Evangelical Church in Indonesia launches legal aid institute
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1) Vanuatu raises West Papua rights, Kanaky decolonisation, Matthew and Hunter dispute at UN
By Pita Ligaiula -September 29, 2026
Vanuatu has raised concerns over alleged human rights violations in West Papua, called for the decolonisation of Kanaky New Caledonia and urged France to accept the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the disputed Matthew and Hunter Islands.
Vanuatu’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Odo Tevi, raised the three issues in his address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Tevi said peace and security could not be separated from human rights and called for renewed international attention to the situation of indigenous Papuans in West Papua.
“Vanuatu remains deeply concerned about reports of serious human rights violations affecting indigenous Papuans in West Papua,” Tevi said.
He said United Nations special procedures had raised concerns over indigenous rights, displacement, cultural rights, environmental impacts and the treatment of human rights defenders in Papua.
“The call from the Pacific Forum leaders for the UN Human Rights Commissioner visit to West Papua remains unheeded and needs to be action,” he said.
Tevi also reaffirmed Vanuatu’s support for the decolonisation of Kanaky New Caledonia, which remains on the UN list of Non-Self-Governing Territories.
“We reiterate the inalienable right of the indigenous Kanak people to self-determination and call for a peaceful, inclusive, transparent and credible process consistent with the Charter of the United Nations and relevant General Assembly resolutions,” he said.
Tevi said Vanuatu remained concerned about persistent socio-economic disparities affecting Kanaks, including inequalities in employment, education, income and access to economic opportunities.
He said the disparities were long-standing structural imbalances that constrained the full and equitable enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights by indigenous Kanaks despite New Caledonia’s natural resources and economic potential.
“Addressing these disparities is essential to fostering social cohesion and advancing a just, inclusive and sustainable decolonisation process,” Tevi said.
Vanuatu called for the full implementation of relevant UN resolutions on New Caledonia and continued engagement among all stakeholders, including France as the administering power and representatives of the people.
Tevi also reaffirmed the role of the UN Special Committee on Decolonisation and the Fourth Committee in advancing self-determination.
He said the rights, aspirations and interests of the Kanak people must remain at the centre of the decolonisation process.
Turning to Vanuatu’s territorial dispute with France, Tevi said the Vanuatu Government had initiated proceedings against France before the International Court of Justice (ICJ)at the end of August.
The case concerns sovereignty over Umaenupne and Umaeneg islands, known in English as Matthew and Hunter Islands, as well as maritime boundaries between Vanuatu and New Caledonia.
“These islands are an integral part of Vanuatu’s territory,” Tevi said.
He said Vanuatu’s position was grounded in customary governance, long-standing historical connections and indigenous ownership, which he said formed part of the country’s responsibility as ancestral custodians.
Tevi acknowledged France’s support for the international rules-based order and its backing for international judicial institutions.
He also recognised France’s cooperation with Vanuatu on global climate action, including support for initiatives before the ICJ.
“We greatly value this partnership and France leadership on issues of international importance.
“It is in the same spirit of mutual respect and commitment to international law that we respectfully invite France to consent to the jurisdiction of the court,” Tevi said.
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2) Different approaches to Papua’s problems are blocking dialogue
News Desk September 29, 2026
Jayapura, Jubi – Papuan political figure Laurenzus Kadepa says differences in perspectives have made it difficult to find the best solution to the Papua issue, contributing to a breakdown in communication between the central government and Papuan communities.
Kadepa, who served on the Papua Legislative Council’s committee overseeing government, politics, law, human rights and security from 2014 to 2024, said the central government and Papuan communities had different views on how to address the root causes of problems in the region.
He said the central government had focused more on development, welfare, special autonomy, security, law enforcement and maintaining Indonesia’s territorial integrity.
Papuan communities, meanwhile, had placed greater emphasis on alleged human rights violations, the protection of Indigenous peoples, history, identity, justice and political space.
“When human rights issues and conflict are addressed only through physical development or a security approach, people feel that the root causes have not been resolved,” Kadepa said in a message on Sunday (27/9/2026).
He said the central government needed to establish inclusive and dignified dialogue with Papuan communities and other stakeholders in the region.
The dialogue should involve the Papuan People’s Councils (MRP) in the six provinces of Papua, customary leaders, churches, women, young people, academics, civil society and other elements of Papuan society.
“Every alleged violation of the law and human rights must be addressed transparently, fairly and accountably. Whoever is responsible must be investigated and held accountable through the proper mechanisms,” he said.
According to Kadepa, dialogue was not a threat to the state. Rather, it was a way to build trust, because development in Papua could not be limited to physical infrastructure.
“Papua must be heard, respected, protected and treated fairly. Humanity must be the common ground,” he said.
Kadepa also said development in Papua should put Papuan people at its centre.
“Protecting the rights of Indigenous Papuans, customary land, education, healthcare and the economy, while ensuring that special autonomy funds are genuinely felt by the community,” he said. (*)
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3) The Legal and Human Rights Department of the Evangelical Church in Indonesia launches legal aid institute
News Desk September 29, 2026
Jayapura, Jubi – The Legal and Human Rights Department of the Evangelical Church in Indonesia (GIDI) has launched the GIDI Legal Aid Institute (LBH GIDI) in Jayapura, Papua, on Monday (28/9/2026).
GIDI Legal and Human Rights Department Chairman Rev. Jimmy Koirewoa said the establishment of LBH GIDI was part of the Evangelical Church in Indonesia’s commitment to addressing legal and humanitarian issues faced by church members and the wider community.
He said GIDI saw the need for an institution specifically tasked and equipped to monitor, provide legal assistance and support, protect, document and report on various legal and humanitarian issues affecting communities.
The establishment of LBH GIDI is therefore expected to provide a platform for advocacy on issues faced by different groups in society.
“Especially for ordinary people and those in vulnerable situations, while providing legal protection and assistance to people who need it,” Rev. Koirewoa said in a statement on Monday (28/9/2026).
He said LBH GIDI was officially launched by the president and vice-president of GIDI, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the beginning of its operations.
Lawyers involved in providing legal and humanitarian assistance through LBH GIDI are expected to carry out their work professionally and with integrity, while upholding the principles of justice, humanity, respect for human rights and the interests of people seeking legal assistance.
Rev. Koirewoa said LBH GIDI would provide services directly in the field, particularly in situations where communities were vulnerable.
These include conflict and violence, natural and social disasters, displacement, social issues, alleged human rights violations, legal problems faced by communities, and other situations requiring legal assistance, protection and support.
In carrying out its role, LBH GIDI is expected to coordinate with GIDI’s Legal and Human Rights Department and work closely with the GIDI Humanitarian Team, churches, communities, government institutions, humanitarian organisations, community organisations and other parties concerned with law enforcement, justice, human rights and humanitarian issues.
“This cooperation is expected to strengthen the services provided so that people facing legal or humanitarian difficulties can receive the assistance and support they need,” he said.
The GIDI Legal and Human Rights Department has called on GIDI members and all other parties who are willing to contribute to support the work of LBH GIDI.
It said such support was part of a collective effort to strengthen legal assistance, protection and support for members of the church and communities in need.
“The GIDI Legal and Human Rights Department welcomes all parties who care about legal and humanitarian services to work together in supporting the establishment and work of LBH GIDI,” Rev. Koirewoa said. (*)
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1) Indonesia Rejects Allegations of Systematic Human Rights Violations in Papua
2) Pacific states urge Jakarta to allow UN access to West Papua at New York general assembly
3) Ateta Clan challenges palm oil expansion and alleged encroachment on customary land in Teluk Bintuni
4) Moi Indigenous community rejects state claims over customary land in Sorong Regency
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1) Indonesia Rejects Allegations of Systematic Human Rights Violations in Papua
Reporter Antara September 29, 2026 | 12:30 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia rejects unilateral allegations of systematic human rights violations in Papua. The country asserts that it takes any credible allegations seriously and addresses them 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 while exercising its right of reply during the General Debate of the 81st United Nations General Assembly session in New York on Monday, September 28, in response to statements regarding the situation in Papua made by representatives of the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.
It has been reported that three civil servants were killed after distributing livestock aid to the community, a driver transporting necessities was killed, and nine women and children were abducted in Mimika.
“Attacks on civilians do not constitute a peaceful expression of grievances. Indonesia is obligated to protect all its citizens, while ensuring that every law enforcement measure adheres to national law and international human rights obligations,” Indonesia asserted in its right of reply, as quoted by ANTARA.
Indonesia reiterates that discussions regarding Papua must reflect the situation in its entirety. Civilians, teachers, health workers, and government officials have also fallen victim to violence perpetrated by armed groups.
Indonesia also emphasizes 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 not be dictated by other countries or regional organizations.
Indonesia has stated that it will continue to engage constructively through relevant mechanisms and promote dialogue and cooperation grounded in respect for facts and the safety of all civilians.
According to the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA), during the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, Solomon Islands Prime Minister 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.
"Reports regarding human rights violations in West Papua have persisted for too long. These reports must be independently verified, rather than being allowed to turn into an unending dispute," said Wale. He also urged Indonesia to facilitate the long-awaited visit of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Vanuatu’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Odo Tevi, raised a similar point when he expressed concerns about alleged human rights violations in West Papua.
Tevi said peace and security cannot be separated from human rights, while calling for greater international attention to the situation of indigenous Papuans in West Papua. "The call from Pacific Islands Forum leaders for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit West Papua has yet to be addressed and requires urgent follow-up," he said.
Meanwhile, on September 24, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Solomon Islands Foreign Minister Rick Nelson Houenipwela held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly to strengthen cooperation in development, trade, and capacity building.
Sugiono invited business representatives from the Solomon Islands to participate in the Trade Expo Indonesia, scheduled for October 14–18, 2026. He also encouraged finalizing cooperation in education and culture.
The Foreign Minister of the Solomon Islands outlined plans to strengthen the country's representation in Jakarta to boost bilateral economic and trade relations, and expressed appreciation for Indonesia's contributions through various capacity-building programs and scholarships.
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2) Pacific states urge Jakarta to allow UN access to West Papua at New York general assembly
Andrew Mathieson Published September 29, 2026 at 10.30am (AWST)
Pacific leaders used their address at the 81st session of United Nations general assembly to urge Indonesia to permit the UN Human Rights High Commissioner unrestricted access to visit West Papua.
The demand has been a long time coming from the Pacific Island Forum member states, dating back to an initial request over alleged widespread rights abuses against Indigenous Papuans in the occupied territory.
The outrage even led an emotional Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale to go a step further under the worldwide spotlight of its New York headquarters.
Mr Wale called for the abolishment of veto powers which the five permanent members of the UN — the United States, Russia, China, United Kingdom and France — hold with their responsibility for international peace and security whereby should one member state object to any UN resolution.
He described this provision as a "relic of 1945" going back to the conclusion of World War II to attract the major powers, whose cooperation was essential to maintain peace and persuade them to participate in the world's newest security system.
"Too often it has been used to shield violations of international law and entrench the double standards that fuel conflict," Mr Wale told the UN general assembly.
"The veto must never again be used in situations of genocide, crimes against humanity, or war crimes."
The remarks concerned how Indonesia was able to obtain West Papua through the UN following the decolonisation of two neighbouring former colonies of the Netherlands from vastly different cultural ethnicities.
Solomon Islands joined its Melanesian Spearhead Group member states — Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Kanak Socialist National Liberation Front in New Caledonia — to ask UN Human Rights High Commissioner Volker Türk, an Austrian lawyer, to supply a human rights report on West Papua before the group's summit in mid-2027.
The Melanesian Spearhead Group is considering expelling Indonesia's associate membership should Jakarta block a sanctioned visit.
"Solomon Islands respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Indonesia, and we value our friendship with its government and people," Mr Wale said.
"It is precisely because of that friendship that we speak with candour.
"Reports of human rights violations in West Papua have persisted for far too long.
"They must be independently verified, not left in dispute."
Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine was another Pacific voice to push for a resolution on the matter.
"The Marshall Islands affirms the region's Pacific Islands Forum communiqué position regarding West Papua, including a 2018 invitation by Indonesia to the UN Human Rights Commissioner," she added.
Indonesia has previously reassured the international community it supports "a cooperative and non-confrontational approach to human rights issues, based on mutual respect (but) national ownership".
The Melanesian Spearhead Group anticipates meeting Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the conclusion of the general assembly.
Indonesia's Minister for Foreign Affairs Sugiono gave something of a diplomatic response to the united Pacific bloc.
"As a nation of more than 280 million people, Indonesia's learned that diversity is not something to overcome; it is something to manage, respect and turn into strength to democratic participation, dialogue, and respect for differences," he said.
"We preserve our unity from Aceh to Papua, from Miangus to Roti.
"Indonesia is one people; Indonesia is one nation."
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3) Ateta Clan challenges palm oil expansion and alleged encroachment on customary land in Teluk Bintuni
On 13 July 2026, members of the Indigenous Ateta clan from Sumuri District, Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua Province, staged a peaceful protest beginning at approximately 07.00 am at the Office of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) in Teluk Bintuni Regency. The protest concerned alleged encroachment on approximately 32,000 hectares of Ateta customary land and disputed Right to Cultivate (Hak Guna Usaha, HGU) certificates associated with oil palm plantation operations. The protesters subsequently filed a police report concerning alleged irregularities in the issuance of land titles and the installation of boundary markers bearing the name of PT BSP on their customary territory. The case raises serious concerns regarding the protection of indigenous land rights, meaningful consultation and free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) in relation to commercial activities affecting customary territories.
On 11 July 2026, Ateta clan leader Mr Benidiktus Ateta issued a public call inviting students, young people, indigenous land-rights defenders and environmental activists in Teluk Bintuni Regency and across West Papua to participate in a peaceful protest. The appeal alleged that the Teluk Bintuni Regency ATR/BPN Office was facilitating activities benefiting PT BSP on Ateta customary land. The demonstration was scheduled for 13 July 2026 at the Teluk Bintuni Regency ATR/BPN Office, beginning at 07.00 Papua Time.
On 13 July, members of the indigenous community protested at the ATR/BPN Office and the Teluk Bintuni Regency Environment Agency before proceeding to the Teluk Bintuni Regency Police Station, where they submitted a complaint to the Integrated Police Service Centre (SPKT). The community was accompanied by a representative of the West Papua People’s Assembly (MRP). According to Benidiktus Ateta, the complaint concerned alleged “land mafia” activities relating to the disputed certificates and the placement of PT BSP boundary markers on Ateta customary land.
The dispute has its origins in oil palm operations reportedly conducted by PT Varita Maju Tama in Sumuri District for approximately three decades. According to community representative Dion Ateta, PT Varita obtained access to the customary territory in 1997 through approval from the then district authorities without involving the indigenous community. The Manokwari Land Agency subsequently issued HGU documentation. Following PT Varita’s reported bankruptcy or liquidation, some of its assets were allegedly transferred to PT BSP, including land claimed by the Ateta clan as approximately 32,000 hectares of customary territory.
The Ateta community reported subsequently discovering boundary markers bearing the name PT BSP on its customary land. Hendri S. Paru, Head of the Teluk Bintuni Regency Land Agency, confirmed that the markers had been installed by PT BSP rather than by the BPN. He further stated that PT BSP’s acquisition of PT Varita had taken place in Jakarta but that the relevant administrative procedures had not yet been completed and that, administratively, the land documentation remained registered under PT Varita.
Significant disagreement remains regarding the status and ownership of the disputed certificates. Community representatives demanded transparency concerning certificates issued by the BPN to PT BSP. Hendri S. Paru disputed this characterisation, explaining that only three certificates were associated with the company, whilst more than 2,000 others were likely associated with transmigrant farmers under plantation schemes. He stated that PT Varita’s certificates had been issued in 1997 and remained valid until 2032.
The protesters submitted 11 demands, including cancellation of HGU certificates; clarification of the boundaries of the area concerned; protection of indigenous peoples’ rights; transparency regarding the disputed certificates; public consultation before any HGU extension; revocation of the HGU associated with PT BSP; an investigation into the circumstances in which the land titles were issued; and disclosure of the consent on which the issuance of the certificates had allegedly been based. The Ateta clan insisted that any action affecting its customary territory must be preceded by consultation with the indigenous rights-holders.
Human rights analysis
The allegations raise concerns regarding the rights of indigenous peoples to their traditionally owned, occupied and used lands, territories and natural resources. The Ateta clan maintains that it never authorised the alienation of the customary territory concerned and has specifically requested that the authorities disclose whose consent formed the basis for the disputed land titles. Under international human rights standards, indigenous peoples’ relationships with ancestral lands extend beyond formal title and encompass customary ownership, occupation and use. UN human rights standards require particular safeguards where business activities affect indigenous lands and resources, including consultation through indigenous peoples’ own representative institutions and attention to FPIC.
The reported absence of indigenous participation when plantation rights were initially established in 1997, if substantiated, would therefore warrant careful examination. The Ateta clan alleges that PT Varita obtained access to its customary territory through approval by government authorities without involving the indigenous rights-holders. The UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rightshas emphasised that indigenous peoples’ cultural values and rights associated with ancestral lands are particularly vulnerable to business activities and that States and businesses should respect FPIC in decisions affecting indigenous lands, territories and resources. It further calls for human rights impact assessments and good-faith consultation through indigenous peoples’ own representative institutions.
The case also engages the State duty to protect against business-related human rights abuses and the corresponding corporate responsibility to respect human rights. Under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, States should maintain an adequate regulatory framework and provide effective remedies, whilst companies should conduct human rights due diligence to identify, prevent, mitigate and account for adverse impacts. This responsibility applies independently of whether domestic authorities have fulfilled their own obligations. Accordingly, any proposed transfer, extension, surveying or exploitation of plantation rights affecting Ateta customary territory should be preceded by transparent clarification of land tenure, meaningful engagement with affected rights-holders and appropriate assessment of potential human rights, social, cultural and environmental impacts.
Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-136-2026
Location: Sumuri, Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua, Indonesia (-2.537116, 133.2587673)
Region: Indonesia > West Papua > Teluk Bintuni > Sumuri
Total number of victims: hundreds
Document ID: HRM-CAS-136-2026
Location: Sumuri, Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua, Indonesia (-2.537116, 133.2587673)
Region: Indonesia > West Papua > Teluk Bintuni > Sumuri
Total number of victims: hundreds
| # | Number of Victims | Name, Details | Gender | Age | Group Affiliation | Violations |
| 1. | hundreds | diverse | unknown | Indigenous Peoples | cultural rights |
Perpetrators:
Private Company
Republic Indonesia > Government
Perpetrator details: PT BSP
Issues: business, human rights and FPICRelated Cases:
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4) Moi Indigenous community rejects state claims over customary land in Sorong Regency
On 9 July 2026, reports emerged that members of the Moi indigenous community, together with the Malamoi Indigenous Peoples’ Organisation (LMA Malamoi), had rejected state claims and planned government programmes affecting customary territories in Sorong Regency, Papua Barat Daya Province. The concerns relate to land formerly covered by corporate concessions whose licences had been revoked and which has subsequently been placed under state supervision through the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force (Satgas PKH). Moi customary rights holders fear that the measure could facilitate the reallocation of their ancestral territories for government programmes or investment projects without their participation or consent.
Dispute over former corporate concessions
The dispute concerns, in part, the legal and administrative status of areas formerly covered by corporate concessions. Moi representatives recalled that in 2021 the Sorong Regency Government and other actors had supported efforts to revoke company licences and return the affected territories to customary rights holders. Following the revocation of the licences, however, the disputed areas were placed under government supervision and control through Satgas PKH rather than being returned to the indigenous communities.
According to information displayed on the notice boards, the relevant corporate licences were revoked pursuant to Decision of the Minister of Environment and Forestry No. SK.01/MENLHK/SETJEN/KUM.1/1/2022. The areas were subsequently placed under state supervision through Satgas PKH pursuant to Presidential Regulation No. 5 of 2025 on the Regulation of Forest Areas. The government reportedly regards these measures as part of efforts to reorganise forest management and rectify problematic permits. At the time of the source report, Suara Papua was still seeking responses from Satgas PKH and the Sorong Regency Government regarding the Moi community’s demands.
Customary assembly and community demands
The position was adopted during a customary assembly and oath-taking ceremony held between 30 June and 1 July 2026 in Saluk Village, Wemak District, Sorong Regency (see photo on top: source: Suara Papua). Customary rights holders, clan chiefs and traditional Moi leaders from the Klabra and Salkma customary territories discussed the potential impact of National Strategic Programmes (PSN), rice-field development, carbon trading, forest concessions and oil-palm plantations, as well as the installation of Satgas PKH notice boards on land previously covered by revoked company concessions.
Participants stated that the notice boards had appeared without prior notification, consultation or public engagement with the customary landowners. The boards reportedly prohibit entry and utilisation of the areas without official permission, including harvesting crops, taking control of land and conducting land transactions. The Moi representatives demanded the removal of the signs, an end to unilateral state claims over their customary territories and the return of former concession areas to the indigenous customary rights holders.
The community stressed that customary land constitutes not merely an economic resource but the foundation of Moi identity, history, livelihoods and ancestral heritage. Representatives expressed concern that the state could reallocate former concession areas to government programmes or investors without participation of the indigenous communities concerned. LMA Malamoi accordingly called upon both the Sorong Regency Government and the central government to recognise and protect Moi customary tenure. The local government should refrain from opening indigenous territories to investment without community consent.
LMA Malamoi also submitted Letter No. 035/LMA-MM/EX/VI-2026 to the President of Indonesia, rejecting National Strategic Programmes planned for Sorong Regency from 2026 onwards, including rice-field development, forest concessions, oil-palm plantations and carbon-trading schemes. According to the letter, the Moi customary law community is recognised under Sorong Regency Local Regulation (Perda) No. 10 of 2017 on the Recognition and Protection of the Moi Customary Law Community. The community cited risks to its cultural and living spaces, biodiversity, water sources and forests, as well as concerns regarding deforestation and climate change.
Human rights analysis
The dispute raises significant concerns regarding the protection of indigenous peoples’ customary land and resource rights. Where state measures affect territories traditionally owned, occupied or used by indigenous peoples, international human rights standards require effective participation and meaningful consultation with the communities concerned. Measures determining the legal status, control or future use of customary territories without such participation may interfere with indigenous peoples’ rights to culture, property, livelihood and self-determination.
Particularly relevant is the principle of free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) enshrined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Articles 19 and 32 require states to consult and cooperate in good faith with indigenous peoples through their representative institutions before adopting measures or approving projects affecting their lands, territories and resources. Article 26 further recognises indigenous peoples’ rights to lands, territories and resources traditionally owned, occupied or otherwise used or acquired, whilst Article 28 provides for redress where such lands have been taken or damaged without their FPIC.
The allegations also engage Article 27 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), particularly where access to ancestral territory and natural resources is integral to the cultural life of an indigenous community. Restrictions on access to customary forests, agricultural areas, water sources or other resources may have consequences extending beyond property interests where those territories constitute the material basis for maintaining indigenous culture, livelihoods and community life.
Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-135-2026
Location: Sorong Regency, Southwest Papua, Indonesia (-1.1223204, 131.4883373)
Region: Indonesia > Southwest Papua > Sorong
Total number of victims: hundreds
Document ID: HRM-CAS-135-2026
Location: Sorong Regency, Southwest Papua, Indonesia (-1.1223204, 131.4883373)
Region: Indonesia > Southwest Papua > Sorong
Total number of victims: hundreds
| # | Number of Victims | Name, Details | Gender | Age | Group Affiliation | Violations |
| 1. | hundreds | diverse | unknown | Indigenous Peoples | cultural rights, right to food |
Perpetrator: Republic Indonesia > Government > Public Official
Issues: business, human rights and FPIC
Sources:
Suara Papua
Related Cases:
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