Topic: 2025-Situation in Indonesia and West Papua
Country: United States of America
Delegate Name: Manya Tijoriwala
SIMUN
Topic: 2025-Situation in Indonesia and West Papua
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Manya Tijoriwala
The United States recognizes the ongoing conflict in West Papua as a complex and deeply rooted issue with significant humanitarian, political, and security implications. The situation, which stems from the contested 1969 “Act of Free Choice” and the subsequent rise of the Free Papua Movement (OPM), has resulted in decades of violence, human rights violations, and political instability. The United States is committed to promoting peace, human rights, and democratic governance in West Papua while supporting Indonesia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. This position paper outlines the U.S. stance on the West Papua conflict and proposes a path to address the crisis.
The United States recognizes Indonesia’s sovereignty over West Papua and supports its territorial integrity. However, the U.S. emphasizes that this sovereignty comes with the responsibility to ensure the protection of human rights, the rule of law, and the well-being of all citizens, including the Indigenous Papuan population. The United States is deeply concerned by the reports of human rights abuses in West Papua, including killings, torture, forced displacement, and restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly. The U.S. calls upon the Indonesian government to allow unfettered access to the region for international human rights organizations, including the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), to investigate these allegations and ensure accountability and repercussions occur.
The United States is committed to supporting humanitarian and development efforts in West Papua to address issues such as food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, and economic inequality. The U.S. encourages international partners to contribute to these efforts and calls on the Indonesian government to facilitate the delivery of aid to affected communities.
The United States proposes the establishment of a way that conflict can be mediated internally, which is facilitated by the United Nations or a neutral third party, to encourage peace talks between the Indonesian government and Papuan leaders. This mechanism should include representatives from civil society, women, and youth to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive dialogue. The United States is prepared to offer counterterrorism assistance to Indonesia to address the threat posed by the TPNPB, while emphasizing the importance of adhering to international human rights standards in all security operations.
The United States is committed to supporting a peaceful, just, and sustainable resolution to the West Papua conflict. By promoting human rights, inclusive dialogue, and economic development, the U.S. aims to help build a future where the people of West Papua can live in dignity, security, and prosperity. The U.S. calls on all parties to prioritize peace and work together to end the cycle of violence and instability in the region.
