Indonesian Christian Forum urges government to rethink Papua security approach amid humanitarian crisis

A coalition of Indonesian Christian organizations, the Forum Umat Kristiani Indonesia (Fukri), has issued seven statements demanding the government reassess its security-focused strategy in Papua. The group expressed deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region, urging an end to the prolonged conflict.

Fukri highlighted that recent events in Intan Jaya and other conflict zones have resulted in further casualties, demonstrating that the humanitarian crisis in Papua is not an isolated incident but a recurring structural issue. Pdt. Jacklevyn Frits Manuputty, Chairman of the Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI), stated that despite five decades of integration with Indonesia, Papua continues to bear deep humanitarian wounds. The ongoing armed conflict claims lives among indigenous Papuans, non-Papuan civilians, and security personnel, with vulnerable groups like pregnant women facing high risks during conflict and displacement.

Manuputty questioned the effectiveness of the dominant security approach, asking if it truly addresses the core needs of indigenous Papuans or merely perpetuates fear and mistrust. He emphasized that the Indonesian constitution guarantees the right to life and upholds human rights, which cannot be diminished under any circumstances.

During a press conference in Jakarta, representatives from various Fukri member denominations, including PGI, the Indonesian Bishops' Conference (KWI), and others, presented their unified stance. They expressed profound sorrow over the unending humanitarian crisis and called upon all armed parties, both state and non-state, to cease violence and prioritize civilian safety above all else. The forum specifically urged the government to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the security approach in Papua, asserting that militaristic methods have failed to deliver just peace and that societal welfare cannot be measured by increased security presence alone.