Papua has been in the spotlight after protests and clashes in a number of areas in recent days. Starting from the siege of Papuan student dormitories in Surabaya by local residents to clashes in Malang, East Java on Friday. Racist remarks addressed to Papuan students led to protests in a number of areas in West Papua and Papua. In other words, the security situation is not yet fully conducive.
Clashes and protests by the people of Papua are a burst of problems that have been felt so far. For example, discrimination and the economy, when Papuan people cannot control the economy in their own regions. The issue was buried for a long time in mind. Until then, their emotions erupted when Papuan students got racist treatment in East Java.
It is better if all parties understand in advance the current conditions. Including about what is felt by the people of Papua. After that, only can get the right solution. All parties must agree that the conversation will more quickly find a solution if done with a cold heart and a conducive situation. If we want to solve problems related to Papua, we recommend that all parties calm down before expressing their opinions.
Problems related to Papua are indeed not new. Economic disparities and discrimination often occur. However, that does not mean the Indonesian government needs to hold a referendum in the near future. Referendum is not the right solution. Granting independence directly from Indonesia is also not an answer.