- After a divisive election, the country is crying out for new infrastructure, improved labour conditions and a revitalised manufacturing sector
- Co-opting Prabowo Subianto and allies into Joko Widodo’s coalition may help political stability and allow for focus on economic reforms. But there are downsides
Thousands march at a protest in Jayapura, Papua province. Photo: EPA-EFE
Explained: what has led to the violent riots in Indonesia’s Papua?
- Riots broke out on Monday in the restive Papua region, where a separatist movement has simmered since the 1960s
- While President Joko Widodo has sought to improve outcomes for the region with infrastructure spending, Indonesia’s long-standing racism against Papuans risks undermining his plans, says Human Rights Watch
Topic | Indonesia
Thousands march at a protest in Jayapura, Papua province. Photo: EPA-EFE
A local parliament building burns during a protest in Manokwari, West Papua. Photo: EPA-EFE
Indonesia’s Papua burns as protests against alleged police abuse turn violent
- The protests came after pro-independence student activists were detained over the weekend for allegedly destroying an Indonesian flag
- Papua declared itself independent in 1961 but was incorporated into Indonesia after a referendum in 1969
Topic | Indonesia
A local parliament building burns during a protest in Manokwari, West Papua. Photo: EPA-EFE
