Posted on 09 April 2024
A human rights group has implored the New Zealand government to take a stand on the escalating human rights violations in West Papua. This urgent plea comes in the wake of a disturbing video that surfaced, showing Indonesian security forces torturing an indigenous Papuan man. The footage depicts the man bound and subjected to inhumane treatment within a water-filled drum, as he is kicked, punched, and cut with a knife by individuals, some in military attire. The bloodied water, a stark visual of the brutality inflicted, has prompted calls for action.
West Papua Action Aotearoa, a solidarity group in New Zealand, has voiced its concerns, urging the New Zealand government to confront Indonesia regarding this specific incident and the broader context of ongoing state military violence against civilians. Catherine Delahunty, a spokesperson for the group, emphasized the necessity for New Zealand to challenge Indonesia and reaffirm its commitment to a United Nations Human Rights Commissioner’s visit to West Papua, an agreement backed by the Pacific Islands Forum.
In an email response, the Indonesian Embassy in New Zealand stated, "The incident is deeply regrettable." The embassy has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to human rights and a strict policy against impunity for security force misconduct. An investigation into the matter is currently underway, reflecting Indonesia’s stated dedication to upholding human rights standards.
Source: RNZ, RNZ