Papua: Freedom or Occupation on Australia’s Doorstep?
25 March 2025
On Greek Independence Day, people around the world honour the valour and courage of those who fought tirelessly for freedom during their war of independence against the Ottoman Empire. This struggle, which spanned nearly 400 years, cost countless lives before the great powers intervened in support of the Greek people. History teaches us that freedom often comes at a steep price, usually paid in blood. As we reflect on these historical struggles for independence, we must also direct our attention to the plight of the Papuan people, whose suffering and calls for freedom have largely gone unnoticed, even as they unfold right on Australia’s doorstep.
A Forgotten Struggle
When the Dutch relinquished control of West Papua, they handed over the territory to Indonesia without consulting the indigenous Papuan population. Today, Papua is a land plagued by suffering and oppression. While Australians often focus on distant conflicts in the Middle East or Eastern Europe, the humanitarian crisis in Papua has been largely overlooked. The Papuans, who aided Australian, Dutch, and American forces during World War II in their fight against Japanese occupation, now find themselves in a desperate struggle for survival against a regime that seeks to suppress their identity and autonomy. Australia’s engagement—or lack thereof—with Papua raises critical questions. Is the Australian government hesitant to confront the Indonesian government, fearing repercussions from a nation of over 281 million people, the majority of whom are Muslim? Or is the issue simply a matter of geopolitical priorities, where the interests of powerful nations overshadow the cries for help from the Papuan people? The answers to these questions could have long-lasting implications for future Australian governments.
The Call for Freedom
The people of West Papua are unequivocal in their demands: “We are West Papuans, and we want freedom!” Over 500,000 of their kin have reportedly lost their lives in the ongoing struggle, yet their determination to fight for independence remains unbroken. Recently, West Papuans held a rally in Manokwari, risking their lives to call for independence and support for a Pacific Islands Forum fact-finding mission aimed at investigating human rights abuses. Their peaceful demonstration was violently interrupted by Indonesian police, who continue to suppress freedom of expression in occupied West Papua. The Indonesian government has repeatedly denied access to the Pacific Islands Forum’s mandated mission, which seeks to uncover the human rights violations that have persisted for decades. The people of West Papua have made their feelings clear: they need the support of their Pacific neighbours to expose the genocide occurring in their homeland.
A Volcano of Tension
To the north of Australia, a metaphorical volcano simmers, threatening to erupt and shower the Australian mainland with the fallout of its explosive consequences. This metaphor extends beyond geology; it represents the potential for conflict and humanitarian crises that could arise from Australia’s inaction or indecision regarding the situation in Papua. Are we prepared to confront the unexpected, or are we too complacent in our comfort to take decisive action?
The people of West Papua are not only calling for international intervention but are also reminding the world of their historical alliance with Australia during World War II. Veterans like James Burrowes, who fought alongside West Papuans, have voiced their support for the independence movement, emphasizing the bonds forged in battle. “You helped us in our time of need. It is only right to help you in yours,” Burrowes said in an open letter, signalling the moral obligation Australia has towards the Papuan people.
The Economic Exploitation
Central to the ongoing crisis in West Papua is the exploitation of its vast natural resources, particularly in the Grasberg Mine, operated by Freeport-McMoRan, the largest gold mine in the world. This mine has become a symbol of the economic exploitation that underpins the Indonesian occupation. Freeport is Indonesia’s largest taxpayer, generating billions for the Indonesian government while paying around $3 million annually in “protection money” to the military. This arrangement perpetuates a cycle of violence and oppression while highlighting the complicity of multinational corporations in the suffering of the West Papuan people. Reports indicate that the mine pumps over 238,000 tons of toxic waste into local river systems every day, leading to environmental devastation and the decimation of local fisheries. The wealth generated from this exploitation does not benefit the indigenous population but rather enriches the Indonesian military and government while leaving the Papuans impoverished and marginalized.
Historical Injustice
The roots of this conflict stretch back to 1962 when West Papua was poised for independence from Dutch colonial rule. Under pressure from the United States, the Dutch were coerced into transferring control to Indonesia, with promises of a future referendum for self-determination. However, when the time came for the so-called “Act of Free Choice” in 1969, the process was a farce. Approximately 1,022 handpicked Papuan representatives were coerced into voting for integration with Indonesia under threat of violence. This egregious manipulation of the democratic process has left a deep scar on the Papuan populace and has fuelled their ongoing struggle for independence.
A Call to Action
As the world increasingly recognizes the plight of the West Papuan people, it is imperative for Australia, as a neighbouring nation, to take an active role in advocating for their rights and freedoms. The historical ties between Australia and West Papua, coupled with the moral obligation stemming from their shared history during World War II, necessitate a thoughtful and proactive approach. Australia must consider forming new alliances with Pacific nations, including Indonesia, the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and New Zealand, to advocate for the rights of the Papuan people. By working diplomatically, Australia can exert influence without resorting to military intervention, as was done in East Timor. The call for freedom from West Papua is not merely a distant echo but a pressing humanitarian issue that demands our attention and action. The world can no longer afford to turn a blind eye to the suffering of the Papuan people, who continue to endure oppression and violence in their quest for self-determination.
In summary, the struggle for freedom in West Papua is a complex issue that intertwines history, geopolitics, and human rights. As we reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence and the ongoing challenges faced by the Papuan people, we must act with urgency and compassion. The time has come to support their fight for freedom and justice, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights upheld—not only for their sake but for the integrity of our shared humanity.
Peter Adamis
Freelance Journalist