Security forces crackdown on peaceful rally in West Papua
Statement 27 April 2026
A rally was held in Jayapura (and other regions) today, 27 April to protest the deteriorating human rights situation in West Papua, particularly in the Dogiyai regency.
Around 7.30am Papua time protestors gathered for a peaceful rally and although the police initially allowed the march to take place, the demonstrators were blocked in front of Den Zipur Waena by police and Mobile Brigade (Brimob) personnel.
The demonstrators attempted to negotiate with the police, however, the negotiations failed. The situation then escalated resulting in the policing firing tear gas. It was also reported that the security forces threw stones at the protestors.
The protesters then fled in various directions to avoid the tear gas. It was also reported that several negotiators were hit with batons during the situation. A number of demonstrators received injuries.
Joe Collins of AWPA said, “yet again we have the Indonesian security forces cracking down on peaceful demonstrators who were trying to peacefully bring the authorities attention to the grave human rights situation in the territory.”
Collins said, "there has been no improvement in the human rights situation in the territory over recent years and it is in fact seriously deteriorating".
AWPA urges the Government to use its good offices with Jakarta, urging it to address the human rights situation directly in the territory.
Canberra should also urge Jakarta to allow the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit the territory.
Ends
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