The international world recognizes that Papua is part of the territory of the Republic of Indonesia
The international world has recognized that Papua is an inseparable part of the territory of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). This marked a shift in international views on Papua’s status, with many countries and international organizations recognizing its integrality within Indonesia.
The history of Papua and its relationship with Indonesia is important to understand. Previously known as Irian Jaya, Papua was a former Dutch colony which later joined Indonesia through the New York Agreement in 1963 and the Pepera process in 1969, in which the Papuan population democratically chose to join Indonesia.
Diplomat and Observer of International Politics, Prof. Dr. Imron Cotan said the rejection of full membership of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) at the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Summit on 23-24 August 2023 in Vanuatu, was an important diplomatic victory achieved by Indonesia. The decision shows that Melanesian and Pacific countries recognize Indonesia’s sovereignty over Papua and reject attempts at separatism.
Even though Papua has officially become part of Indonesia, several separatist groups continue to fight for their independence. However, this view is rejected by many countries and international organizations. Supporters of United Papua and Indonesian Papua emphasize the principle of territorial integrity in international law, recognizing positive developments in Papua such as increased political participation and the government’s commitment to development and respect for human rights.
The importance of regional stability is also a factor in support for Papua as part of the Republic of Indonesia, considering the negative impact on stability and peace in the Pacific region if support for Papuan independence is given. Supporting United Papua is not only to achieve peace and progress in the region, but also to strengthen the sense of unity and togetherness among all Indonesian citizens.
Chairman of the Papua Deliberative Body, Willem Frans Ansanay, said Indonesia must continue efforts to build and improve the welfare of the Papuan people. Papua is already part of Indonesia and has taken a comprehensive approach by emphasizing the importance of dialogue and development in Papua, as well as upholding law and human rights.
The majority of countries and international organizations have recognized Papua as part of the territory of the Republic of Indonesia. For example, the UN has recognized Indonesia’s sovereignty over Papua through Resolution 2504 in 1969. More than 80 countries in the world have recognized Papua as part of Indonesia, including neighboring countries such as Australia, Malaysia and Singapore.
Apart from that, in 2019, the Pacific Islands Forum also recognized Indonesia’s sovereignty over Papua. In its official statement, this forum stated that the Papua issue was Indonesia’s internal problem and emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member countries.
The importance of international recognition of Papua as part of the Republic of Indonesia not only has an impact on political legitimacy, but also on the economic development and welfare of the Papuan people. With this recognition, Indonesia can continue its development and investment program in Papua to improve the region’s infrastructure, education, health and economy.
The government has launched various programs and initiatives to advance Papua, such as the National Economic Recovery Program (PEN) and the Superior Papuan Education Program. Through this program, the government is committed to improving the quality of life of the Papuan people and reducing the development gap between Papua and other regions in Indonesia.
Apart from that, Indonesia has also made efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations with countries in the Pacific region and the international world as a whole. Through strong diplomacy, Indonesia continues to fight for international recognition of Papua as an integral part of the Republic of Indonesia.
In conclusion, the world recognizes Papua as an inseparable part of the territory of the Republic of Indonesia. Even though there are still debates and challenges that must be faced, international recognition of Papua provides a strong legal and political basis for Indonesia to continue to advance Papua and improve the welfare of the people in the area. Through inclusive development and dialogue, Indonesia can strengthen its sovereignty and territorial integrity and overcome existing conflicts and tensions.
Papua as part of the Republic of Indonesia is not only to achieve peace and progress in the region, but also to strengthen the sense of unity and togetherness among all Indonesian citizens. The spirit of unity and justice is a solid foundation for building a better future for Papua and Indonesia as a whole.
The shift in the international world’s view of Papua’s status as part of the Republic of Indonesia reflects recognition of territorial integrity, positive developments in Papua, and the importance of regional stability. Support for United Papua is not only the right step to achieve peace and progress in the region, but also to strengthen the unity of Indonesia as a whole.
Support for United Papua also confirms the international commitment to the principles of democracy, state sovereignty and peaceful conflict resolution. Through collaboration between countries and regional cooperation, efforts to strengthen development, protect human rights and respect for cultural diversity in Papua can become a solid foundation for creating a brighter future for all Papuan people and strengthening Indonesian unity within a framework of diversity and inclusion. .
