Indonesia rejects Papua human rights allegations at UN General Assembly

During the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Indonesia issued a formal response to allegations of systematic human rights violations in Papua made by representatives from the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

Indonesia rejected the unilateral accusations, asserting that all credible human rights claims are addressed through national legal mechanisms and independent bodies, such as the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM). The Indonesian delegation emphasized that the situation in Papua must be viewed in its entirety, noting that civilians, teachers, healthcare workers, and government officials have been victims of violence by armed criminal groups.

Regarding the suggestion for a visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to Papua, Indonesia maintained that such visits must be mutually agreed upon between the host country and the Office of the High Commissioner, rather than being dictated by third parties or regional organizations. Indonesia also highlighted its international standing in human rights, noting its current role as President of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC).