New Report
Burning Paradise: Palm Oil in the Land of the Tree Kangaroo
Photo in report
New Report -Burning Paradise: Palm Oil in the Land of the Tree Kangaroo
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1) Corruption Witnesses Must Come Forward, Be Protected Papuan Agency Says
2) UN helping Bougainville prepare for referendum
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1) Corruption Witnesses Must Come Forward, Be Protected Papuan Agency Says
By : Jihaan Risviani & Ratri M. Siniwi | on 11:59 AM September 01, 2016
The agency has encouraged witnesses to come forward and file complaints. (Antara Photo/M. Agung Rajasa)
Jakarta. The Witness and Victim Protection Agency, or LPSK, has highlighted the effect corruption has in development across the archipelago and encouraging witnesses to come forward for the good of the country.
“You can see it from schools built with low quality and also from roads that always require fixing, leaving no opportunity to build more roads,” Abdul Haris Semendawai, LPSK head, said in Jayapura, Papua, on Wednesday (31/08).
He said corruption has ruined the lives of Indonesians and urged the community to call out suspected acts of corruption, including the misuse of budgets, and report it to authorities.
The public should not hesitate in reporting these violations, he added, as they will be protected under the Law on Witness and Victim Protection.
LPSK has collaborated with the Ministry of Law and Human Rights regional office in Jayapura hosted the "Optimizing Disclosures of Corruption Through the Witness Protection, Rapporteurs and Witnesses" on Wednesday, inviting representatives from the High Court of Papua.
Harli Siregar, assistant of general crimes at the High Court, said the implementation of witness protection is necessary in accordance with the Law on Witness and Victim Protection.
Harli added that a witness can request protection from LPSK through authorities who will then get in touch with the agency.
"Protection will be provided beginning from the stage of the investigation, until the trial. In fact, the judge must participate to protect the witnesses, as the witness also has rights," he said.
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2) UN helping Bougainville prepare for referendum
7:11 pm today
The Papua New Guinea resident co-ordinator for the United Nations System says it wants to help raise further awareness about the peace process in BougainvilleRoy Trivedy announced several projects to achieve this during this week's 15th anniversary celebrations of the signing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement.
He said a critical factor was preparing the region for the referendum on possible independence from PNG, which was expected in June 2019.
Mr Trivedy said one of the things the UN had done was provide the Autonomous Bougainville Government with a mobile cinema that was to be used to convey the information people needed to make informed decisions.
"It's a mobile audio and cinema vehicle that will go all around all the different parts of Bougainville, ensure that information is provided to people in quite remote areas. It will also ensure that information about the sustainable development goals can be provided to people," said Roy Trivedy.
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1) Life-Preserving Mangroves in Papua
1) Life-Preserving Mangroves in Papua
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Ohotya village in Mimika Regency, Papua, was lively in the afternoon. Children came out to play around their stilt houses as the adults finished their daily chores. Ansalma Matnarewa, one of the villagers, just returned from the mangrove forest not far from her village. She was carrying a medium-sized noken, a traditional woven bag.
Ansalma put the bag on the floor of her kitchen and checked her catch of the day. Unprepared, she accidentally let out a large mud crab (Scylla serrata), also known as karaka in the local language. Still covered in mud, the crab walked sideways across the room, its claws up in the air ready to attack.
"Careful, those claws can hurt people badly," the 32-year-old woman told Tempo English last month.
She took her small child, who had been watching her in the kitchen, out of harm's way and grabbed a long, thin metal hook to hold down the mud crab. With ease, Ansalma held the wetland creature right in the middle of its shell and quickly tied the claws with plastic rope to incapacitate it. She did the same thing to the two other crabs in her noken, one looked smaller than the others.
"The big ones I can sell for Rp50,000. For the small one, I can probably get Rp40,000," Ansalma said.
She sold the mud crabs to collectors in the village. These collectors would gather as many crabs as possible from the villagers and transport them to Timika, the capital city of Mimika Regency. Karaka is a popular delicacy in Papua, especially in the Mimika Regency. Its large size and shell hide a lot of crab meat. Visitor can easily find karaka dishes in Timika. There are many restaurants all over the city that sell mud crabs.
Ansalma said the price of mud crabs was better now because the village chief had come up with a rule that stipulates collectors take turns in harvesting the crabs. Previously, the villagers could sell however many crabs to the 10 collectors in the village. This pushed the price of the crabs down since the collectors took a long time to gather enough crabs to transport to Timika.
"They have to make sure the crabs are alive. Dead crabs are worthless," said Lukas Harepa, 35, a villager who hunts mud crabs for a living. That is why the collectors must bring the mud crabs to the city as fast as they can.
However, the boat ride from the village to Timika takes about two hours along the river. The crab collectors will lose money over the transportation cost if they only bring a small number of mud crabs at a time.
"A villager can catch two to three mud crabs four if we're lucky," Lukas said. "We usually don't go hunting on Sundays because we go to Sunday service at church."
Around 125 families currently live in Ohotya village. With the village rule in force, the collectors can gather enough crabs within a day or two. But Ansalma is unhappy as she must work harder to catch the mud crabs in the mangrove forest.
"There used to be so many karaka around here. We didn't have to travel so far or spend too long to catch them," Ansalma said.
These days, Ansalma has to go by boat to an uninhabited island nearby because Ohotya village has no more mud crabs. The villagers had harvested mud crabs without care for sustainability.
Despite last year's marine affairs and fisheries ministerial regulation prohibiting the capture of crabs less than 15 centimeters in length and fertilized female crabs, Ansalma was getting fewer crabs this year. She admitted sometimes she would still sell the smaller or fertilized female crabs to the collectors.
"It's against the regulation, but I need to earn money for my family," Ansalma said. (*)
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2) Officer Shoots Dead Boy in Sugapa, Residents Torch Police Station
28 August 2016
Angry residents set fire to the Sugaba Police Station – Jubi
Jayapura, Jubi – A teenager died after being shot allegedly by a Mobile Brigade officer in Sugapa. Angry residents set fire to the Sugaba Police Station in response to the news.
A local resident contacted by Jubi said the shooting occurred on Saturday (27/8/2016) at around 10:25 Papua time and followed a previous shooting on Thursday (25/8/2016).
“On Thursday, Nope Sani and Nole Sondegau offered the firewood but rejected by the Company Tigi Jaya that paved the Papua Trans road. Don’t know why the company then called the Mobile Brigade whose officer came and shot the two boys three times but missed,” said Sugapa resident on Saturday evening.
Then on Saturday, he futher said, Noperianus Belau, Luter Iapugau, Hans Belau and Otinus Sondegau who were drunk blocked a taxibike driver on the street. He couldn’t accept this and called the Mobile Brigade.
“The officers came right away and pursued these boys who are junior high schools students. Because they run away, the officers run to catch them. They shot Otinus in front of his house; one shot hit his hand and another hit his chess. He died instantly,” he said.
Not accepting this action, his parent burnt Sugapa Police Station.
‘They also took their son’s body that were settled in the Regent’s house to their home,” said Jubi’s informant.
Papua Police Spokesperson Senior Police Commissionaire Patridge Renwarin confirmed about the incident. According to him the incident was occurred at around 11:15 Papua time after the blockage at three-way junction near Sugapa Market by three drunken boys. They head off those who crossed the street.
“A Mobile Brigade officer came and hit one of them, while two run away and chased by two officers,” Renwarin told report on Saturday evening through the short message.
Besides chasing the boys, the officers opened fire and warned by Sugapa police officers. Shortly after, a boy came to Sugapa Police Station reporting his friend was shot dead and Sugapa’s women took his body to the police station.
According to Renwarin, currently the Police coordinated with the Intan Jaya Regent who’s currently outside of Papua. The Police also coordinated with the Chairman of Intan Jaya Legislative Council.
“We also coordinate with the priest to calm down the people and entrust the handling of this case to the Indonesian Police,” said Renwarin. (*/rom)
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3) HDI Does Not Necessarily Reflect Progress
29 August 2016
Jayapura, Jubi – Papua Governor Lukas Enembe said higher Human Development Index scores did not necessarily reflect the achievements of a province.
“Low HDI as happening in Papua that currently is in the last position of 34 provinces occurred because historically the number was low, as we just started the development since 2002 by Special Autonomy. It is not comparable to other provinces in Indonesia,” Enembe recently told reporter in Jayapura.
Examining the growth rate, he explained, Papua’s economy was improving because it grows around 8.76 percent per year, which is significantly higher than overall Indonesian economic growth.
Papuan economic growth is in line with the welfare of Papuan people. It was indicated by the reduction of poverty rate in 2015 to 28.17 percent while in 2013 it reached 30.05 percent, so it reduces to 1.88 percent.
“Along with this achievement, Papua was awarded as the first rank province in reducing the poverty number,” he said.
In addition, the implementation of development 2016 to materialize the vision of Papua, there are main programs that have high leverage and could be directly experienced by people, namely Gerbangmas Hasrat Papua and Prospek.
“For Gerbangmas, the Provincial Province allocated Rp 250 billion for 2016 and Rp 565 billion for Prospek, in which all were allocated for the villages in 29 regencies and municipality in Papua,” said Enembe.
Earlier, the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan claimed the Human Development Index of Papua Province has not been improved. It was have indications of inefficiency of development and funds use.
“It becomes a problem. It means the budget absorption was not right. If you looked at the budget absorption from 2007 to present, it is the same. It shows indication that we did not use the development funds efficiently in Papua,” said Pandjaitan some weeks ago.
He emphasized that the benefits of special autonomy funds has not been clearly obtained. Therefore, the education and health sectors must be immediately improved.
“I frankly have asked to the Attorney General George Brendis for Australia to get involved in education and health. Not for money. We have enough money. But the technology to combat the various diseases occurred here,” he said.
In response to this, he noticed as well as invited all stakeholders in Papua to not quarrel about unnecessary issues, for the education and health sectors is the important issue.
“If we examine that currently the HDI of regencies in Papua is under the national and provincial averages. It becomes a problem for us. I would give data to the Regional Secretary to be examined. Because our data indicated the average HDI per regency and province is under the national average,” Pandjaitan said. (*/rom)
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4) Illu Residents Benefit from Subsidised Flights
29 August 2016
Jayapura, Jubi – Illu Sub-district residents, Puncak Jaya Regency, Papua said they had benefited from subsidized flights provided by Papua Provincial Government in collaboration with the airlines serving the flight route to Papua remote areas.
A local resident, Mekinus Kogoya, said earlier the flight fare from Illu to Wamena, Nabire and Jayapura by small aircraft carrying 12 passengers cost Rp 500,000. “Now, the airfare from Illu to Wamena is Rp 250,000-300,000, Illu-Nabire Rp 250 thousand, Illu – Jayapura Rp 300,000. It is because of the subsidy. It helps people,” said Kogoya in the conversation with Jubi at Illu on last week.
He said, with more affordable fare, people could fly to other areas for the urgent matter.
“Ticket prices used to be expensive. People were in trouble if there’s an urgent need. But now people are not too burdened. For example, when they are going to Wamena, people currently prefer to take an airplane that a car,” he said.
According to him, the land transportation fare from Illu-Wamena is more expensive than the airfare Wamena-Illu and vice versa.
“If taking a car from Wamena-Illu, the fare per person is about Rp 500 thousand. Therefore people prefer to take an airplan. It is the plane is not available for everyday. The flight schedule to Illu is three times a week,” he said.
If the airfare ticket from Illu to several areas could be affordable, it is different with the taxibike fare from Illu to other sub-districts in Puncak Jaya Regency. For example, the route Illu-Tingginambut that could be reached in approximately 30 minutes could reach Rp 1 million.
“The cheapest is between Rp 500-600 thousand. It could reach Rp 1 million. It depends on the situation. If it rains or there is security caution, it could reach Rp 1 million,” said another Illu resident Yus Enumbi.
According to him, besides non-Papuans, the taxibike drivers are also the local residents.
“Many local kids here are becoming the taxibike drivers because the fare is tempting. It is good for them to have a job that generate incomes,” he said. (*/rom)
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5) Korean palm oil firm accused of illegal forest burning in Indonesia
Arthur Neslen Thursday 1 September 2016 20.31 AEST
Some of the world’s biggest buyers have stopped trading with Korindo after the emergence of footage claiming to show illegal burning in Papua province
The boundary between intact forest and land already cleared for palm oil plantations in Indonesia. Photograph: Yudhi Mahendra/Mighty
A Korean palm oil company has been dropped by buyers after footage emerged that allegedly shows the illegal burning of vast tracts of tropical forest on lands it holds concessions for in Indonesia.
Some of the world’s biggest palm oil trading producers including Wilmar, Musim Mas and IOI have stopped using palm oil sourced from Korindo, much of which is destined to meet European demand.
Korindo’s alleged deforestation of pristine woodland in Papua province also threatens to destroy the last sanctuary of several birds of paradise and the tree kangaroo, according to a report by a new environmental alliance called Mighty.
The group has collected evidence from drones, remote sensors, GPS satellites, and videographers and photographers on the ground, which it says proves that Korindo has flouted Indonesia’s no-burning laws and violated responsible sourcing requirements.
Bustar Maitar, Mighty’s campaign director in Papua, told the Guardian: “Korindo is clear-cutting forests and then starting fires to clear the land of remaining biomass. That is forbidden by Indonesia’s regulations but during last year’s forest fires, most of the blazes in the Papua region happened in Korindo’s concessions.”
“There are a lot of animal species and flora here that haven’t even been discovered yet,” Maitar added. “If these kinds of land clearing activities continue, they may never be.”
But Koh Gyeong Min, Korindo’s head of sustainability, denied that the firm had been responsible for any illegal forest burning. “It is not true actually,” he said. “We followed all of the Indonesian regulations and acquired all the proper licences from the government for all areas of operation within our group.”
“I also would like to ask: do the local NGOs or residents have any evidence about our company that they have brought to the Indonesian government or the local courts? As far as I know there have been no cases of that.”
The allegations come as south-east Asia’s 2016 burning season is just beginning. On 30 August, the Indonesian government warned that haze from fires on Sumatra and Kalimantan could reach Malaysia and Singapore in the days ahead.
More than 3,000 hotspots have been detected in the Indonesian archipelago in the last month, with maps released by Greenpeace of Riau and West Kalimantan showing that many are occurring on industrial plantation concessions in the same areas that burned last year.
Yuyun Indradi, Greenpeace Indonesia’s forest campaigner said: “Companies that refuse to take steps to prevent fires have not just ash, but blood on their hands.”
Wildfires in Indonesia’s tropical forests last year are thought likely to have contributed to the premature deaths of more than 100,000 people, and to have emitted more CO2 than the whole of the UK that year.
Korindo is active in Indonesia’s north Malaku region as well as Papua, holding around 620 square miles of forest concessions in total. The company, whose promotional video calls on viewers to “make the Earth green”, has already cleared around 193 square miles of forest.
Maitar said that Korindo had not responded to letters sent by the new alliance, and that the new report was aimed at putting pressure on the Indonesian government.
Several major buyers of Korindo’s palm oil acted to cut the firm out of their supply chains after hearing of the allegations.
A spokeswoman for Musim Mas told the Guardian that it wanted to see Korindo engage with civil society groups and adopt a “No Deforestation, No Peat, No Exploitation” (NDPE) policy. “During this period we will continue to stop buying the palm oil temporarily and monitor Korindo’s progress,” she said.
NDPEs have become a palm oil industry standard in south-east Asia but the Mighty campaign argues that they are not working. Glenn Hurowitz, Mighty’s US campaign director, said that Korindo had been able to deforest 113 square miles of land since 2013, despite clearly visible satellite evidence of 894 hotspots in that period.
“This investigation shows the true face of the palm oil industry in Indonesia even after No Deforestation policies,” Hurowitz said. “The current, mostly confidential company-by-company system is inadequate. We urgently need a transparent, systematic approach, as well as further action by government and prosecutors.”
One of Malaysia’s largest palm oil companies, IOI – which was itself suspended from a sustainability scheme for not doing enough to prevent deforestation - said that its third party suppliers had also “decided to temporarily stop sourcing from Korindo” after hearing the allegations.
The palm oil giant Wilmar told the Guardian that it too had contacted Korindo after a heads up about the new evidence. “Due to a lack of progress from the supplier, and in view of the serious allegations, Wilmar has ceased procuring from Korindo with effect from June 2016,” a spokeswoman said.
None of the companies would reveal how much money they spent on ensuring that third-party palm oil suppliers did not cause environmental damage.
Gyeong Min said that after a demand from Wilmar earlier this year, Korindo began a “high-carbon stock assessment” which would be published later this month. “We also announced a temporary moratorium for our remaining plantation area,” he said.
Last month, a Korindo subsidiary called PT Tunas Sawa Erma declared a three-month suspension of new forest clearings across 25,000 hectares of territory, while it developed a NDPE policy.
But Mighty says that the moratorium did not extend to all Korindo operations. “A couple of months ago we visited their concessions and the land clearing was still happening,” Maitar said. “In our experience with other companies, all activities involving the cutting down of forests should be stopped, while they are doing these sorts of assessments.”
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6) Maluku Governor: ‘Melanesian Family’ Meeting Scheduled for September
28 August 2016
Jayapura, Jubi – Melanesian countries in the South Pacific, including Fiji, are expected to take part in an Indonesian Melanesian conference scheduled to be held in September in Ambon, Maluku Province, Maluku Governor Said Assagaff said on Saturday (27/8/2016).
He also said he had invited the Coordinating Minister of Politic, Legal and Security Affairs Wiranto and the Minister of Internal Affairs Tjahyo Kumolo to attend the meeting.
“I asked Maluku Regional Secretary Hamin Bin Thahir who attended a meeting in Jakarta on 25 August 2016 to ask the ministers to come in the event,” he said.
Secretary Hamin’s presence in Jakarta was to talk about the readiness of Maluku to welcome fellow Melanesians from North Maluku, Papua, West Papua and East Nusa Tenggara.
“We are ready to be host the Melanesian meeting event. Hopefully it would run well because this meeting is very useful to reinforce and strengthen the inter-regions partnership in Indonesia, including those in the Melanesian group,” said the governor.
The meeting in Ambon is planned to be attended by the ambassador of several countries in the South Pacific area, as well as an initiative to start a coordination and consolidation between the government of five provinces in the Eastern region that integrated into Melanesian group. This meeting, further said the governor, would also be used to measure the potencies of each provinces, especially the top product and to open the possibility of export to other countries, therefore the Melanesian province could be a route of trade in Indonesia. (*/rom)
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1) Korindo Responsible for Human Rights Violations, Deforestation, Haze Explosive Environmental Report Finds
2) Video: The devastating deforestation of Papua for the palm oil industry, from above
3) Plantations affect biodiversity, provide few benefits for Papuans: Activists
4) Island focus: Police question 32 over shooting of a student
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1) Korindo Responsible for Human Rights Violations, Deforestation, Haze Explosive Environmental Report Finds
By : Ratri M. Siniwi | on 11:38 AM September 02, 2016
Jakarta. While wildfires rage across Kalimantan and Sumatra, Papua has fallen prey to the illegal slash-and-burn practices which devastated the two western islands, environmental watchdog Mighty has revealed in a new report.
Mighty's investigative report "Burning Paradise," which includes satellite images, hotspot data, photos and videos, accuses Korean-controlled conglomerate Korindo of burning native forests and of human rights violations in Papua and North Maluku.
Mighty was founded by Washington-based think tank the Center for International Policy and joined hands with several established organizations — strategic communications company Waxman Strategies, research organization Aidenvironment, local humanitarian organizations SKP-KAMe Merauke and Pusaka and the Korean Federation for Environmental Movements — to produce the report.
"The continuous increase in global demand for palm oil has become an opportunity for many companies in Indonesia to widen their concessions, especially for palm oil, sacrificing the very little of forests we have left," Mighty Southeast Asia director Bustar Maitar said on Thursday (01/09).
Mighty's team ventured into Korindo's remote palm oil plantations in Papua to document the company's actions with the report including the live footage.
The conglomerate, controlled by the Korean-based Seung family, was established in Jakarta in 1969 with the headquarters remaining in the city since. The group's business includes wood chip production, operating palm plantations to financing and real estate.
The report found that over 50,000 hectares of tropical lowland forests – comparable to the size of Seoul – have been devastated by the group. Satellite imaging indicate Korindo was responsible for illegal forest fires, with 164 hotspots observed, at Korindo's Donghin Prabhawa palm oil plantation in Merauke, in 2015.
The unique and endangered wildlife endemic to Papua, such as the birds of paradise and tree kangaroos, are threatened by the constant habitat degradation.
Conflicts Conflict among local tribes have been triggered by the loss of access to the forest, particularly with regards to land compensation. Rights abuses highlighted in the report found Korindo failed to obtain consent from local communities to build concessions upon their land.
Pastor Anselmus Amo, a religious leader and director of SKP KAMe Merauke, said many of the licenses obtained by palm companies on Papua are signed by people who do not represent local communities. In other cases, consent is forced through military pressure.
"Most of the times they come with the military to scare the locals. Their presence is not even necessary, the locals don't mean to do any harm, so why are they there?" the pastor told the Jakarta Globe during the press briefing in Jakarta on Thursday.
Corporate social responsibility programs are run by Korindo, with schools, clinics and housing built in some areas. Many communities affected y the concessions miss out.
"Business is business, but it still needs to follow the principles of human rights. They cannot be covered up by the corporate social programs. It's a social responsibility, not a blanket for human rights violations," Amo said.
Papuans traditionally rely on sustenance hunting and so shy away from the agrarian customs forced by palm companies.
"Papuans should be the kings on their own land. If they become laborers, they become slaves of theses corporations," he said.
Pusaka, a local NGO protecting the rights of Indigenous communities in Merauke, said the loss of forests is the same as losing the livelihood of the Papuan people.
"Many of the forests have been cleared out for palm oil concessions, the people of the Awiwi tribe have no source of food left, which means they are heading towards extinction," Pusaka director Y.L. Franky said.
Franky suggests that for companies to be credible they must develop a mechanism for conflict resolution to prevent future cases of violence similar to those reported across Korindo concessions.
"Last year we made a report on the military violence in the area. This is not the right way of conduct for the companies if they seek sustainable investments there," Franky said. Call for sanctions Bustar, an activist at Mighty, said the revelations in the report of Korindo's violations is a "cry for help" for the future of the country's forests.
“We just don’t want this to continue and let Papua share the same fate as the forests in Kalimantan and Sumatra,” Bustar, a former Greenpeace forest campaigner, said.
He urged ministries and relevant government authorities to sanction those who are proven to still practice slash-and-burn tactics in forest management, and stressed the importance of "free, prior and informed consent," as it is important for communities to be involved in the understanding and agreeing with new developments to be built on their land.
“We also ask customers of Korindo to stop, until they realize that they have to transform their unsustainable practices,” Bustiar said.
Korindo's Responses In a written response published on Wednesday, Korindo denied the accusations and claimed to have "zero burning" policies in all palm plantations.
According to Korindo's statement, the hotspot images in Mighty's report were satellite images from the Aqua and Terra satellites taken after September 2015, when Indonesia suffered a long drought which caused wildfires across the country, including concession areas.
All palm plantations are registered and have secured necessary licensing from the government, the response said, adding that it has provided adequate compensation to local communities.
"The company also develops a plasma plantation [smaller plots of palm within plantations] of which 20 percent is for the local communities as a direct contribution to boost their revenues," the statement said.
Korindo, known to employ about 20,000 employees all over Indonesia, also denied its operations have increased the haze from forest fires, claiming it has burnt less than 0.1 percent of the total amount of forests burnt in Indonesia in 2015.
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2) Video: The devastating deforestation of Papua for the palm oil industry, from above
Palm oil, an ingredient in half of all packaged foods worldwide, has a bad reputation because it’s associated with the clearing of virgin rainforest to make way for plantations, threatening wildlife and wreaking environmental destruction from Borneo to Guatemala.
That hasn’t stopped Indonesia continuing with a program of clearing and planting that now has dedicated almost 11 million hectares to the crop.
Drone photos just released show the effect of the palm oil and logging concessions belonging to one company, Korindo, a South Korean firm that produces plywood, pulp, and palm oil, among other things. The photos, part of an investigation by a consortium of non-governmental organizations, are of land in Papua, an Indonesian province on an island that’s 85% covered with rainforest. This is what part of it looks like now:
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http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2016/09/02/plantations-affect-biodiversity-provide-few-benefits-for-papuans-activists.html
3) Plantations affect biodiversity, provide few benefits for Papuans: Activists
Jakarta | Fri, September 2 2016 | 01:15 pm
An environmental group has blamed the conversion of forests into oil palm plantations for the loss of biodiversity in Papua, adding that it had also failed to improve the welfare of local people in the province.
Forests that were once a source of staple foods such as sago have been converted into oil palm plantations, which provide limited benefits, Bustar Maitar, chairman of environmental group Mighty Asia Tenggara, said in Jakarta on Thursday.
The businesses deprived many indigenous Papuans of their sources of livelihood because they used to rely on sago and meat for food, which they obtained in forests, Bustar said while speaking at a seminar.
He also said plantation companies had cleared more than 50,000 hectares of tropical forest in South Halmahera in North Maluku and Merauke in Papua.
Bustar criticized companies for paying only meager wages to local people who helped to clear the forest. “They [locals] receive a daily salary of only Rp 85,000 [US$6.40] in Merauke,” Bustar said.
A similar statement was made by Papuan human rights activist Anselmus Amo of the Secretariat of Peace and Justice of the Merauke Archdiocese (SKP-KAMe), who said local workers were subject to unfair treatment.
“Whenever they stage a protest for better pay, military personnel side with the employers,” said Anselmus, adding that the plantations had also destroyed local customs, citing as an example that young Papuans now preferred to eat rice rather than sago. (rez/bbn)
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4) Island focus: Police question 32 over shooting of a student
Jayapura | Fri, September 2 2016 | 08:50 am
Papua Police are investigating the fatal shooting of 15-year-old student Otianus Sondegau in Sugapa, Intan Jaya Papua, on Saturday by questioning 32 witnesses of the incident.
Papua Police chief Paulus Waterpauw said police investigators had examined the scene where the victim was gunned down.
Of the 32 witnesses, the police chief said, eight of them were eyewitnesses, 10 were members of the Police mobile brigade (Brimob) and 14 were members of the Sugapa Police station.
Prior to the incident, a rental car driver was extorted by a group of drunken young men on an intersection near a traditional market.
From an autopsy of the victim’s body, the police chief said, the bullet hit the victim’s back through to the chest.
“The gunshot wound indicates the shot was not fired at close range. We are investigating this,” Paulus added.
The victim had been buried near where both incidents took place at the request of the local community, according to Paulus.
Papua Police chief Paulus Waterpauw said police investigators had examined the scene where the victim was gunned down.
Of the 32 witnesses, the police chief said, eight of them were eyewitnesses, 10 were members of the Police mobile brigade (Brimob) and 14 were members of the Sugapa Police station.
Prior to the incident, a rental car driver was extorted by a group of drunken young men on an intersection near a traditional market.
From an autopsy of the victim’s body, the police chief said, the bullet hit the victim’s back through to the chest.
“The gunshot wound indicates the shot was not fired at close range. We are investigating this,” Paulus added.
The victim had been buried near where both incidents took place at the request of the local community, according to Paulus.
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1) Too Many Papuans Get Killed on Their Land, says Councillor
2) Freeport Suspected of Mining Gold in Lorentz National Park underground
3) FKUB and Kesbangpol Sorong Hold Meeting Anticipating the Post-Terror Security
4) Students Cannot Read, Kidman Junior and High School Provide Special Classes
5) Armed Security Personnel Present in Kogoya Pre-trial Hearing
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1) Too Many Papuans Get Killed on Their Land, says Councillor
1 September 2016
Jayapura, Jubi – Chairman of Papua Legislative Council Yunus Wonda expressed his concern over series of violence occurred in Papua recently, especially over the indigenous Papuans. The latest incident was the shooting of a teenager in Sugapa, Intan Jaya that allegedly perpetrated by Mobile Brigade officer.
He said too many Papuans were killed on their own land. Too much blood was spilled on the Land of Papua. Too many people become the widows and widowers and too many children become the orphans.
“It’s enough. Papuans were suffering for long time on their own land. No more kill over Papuans. Killing or shooting over Papuans is not a solution. If they made a mistake or were considered harmful to the security force, they shouldn’t get shot for dead. Why not be paralyzed?” said Wonda on Wednesday (31/8/2016).
He expressed his disappointment towards the security force’s attitude in Sugapa. He measured them to show their arrogant and emotional attitude. “The perpetrator must be really punished. Don’t let it go. Papua Police Chief must stop such violence way,” he said.
Wonda who’s politician from Democrat Party said he wanted the Mobile Brigade officers served in Papua Central Highland area to be pulled out. He more accepted if the police officers and military personnel assigned in that area.
“We asked to all Mobile Brigade officers in Papua Central Highland to be pulled. They don’t deserve it. They are arrogant and overreacted. Let the police and military to be assigned there,” he said.
According to him, the Mobile Brigade could get ready in the critical situation, but in normal condition, the police officers are sufficient to guard the area. “If really want to shoot people, they better go to Gaza Strip. Shooting is not a solution to solve the problem,” he added.(*/rom)
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2) Freeport Suspected of Mining Gold in Lorentz National Park underground
2 Sep[tember 2016
Papua Regional Secretary Hery Dosinaen in Jayapura on Thursday (1/9/2016) said the underground mining activities were suspected to have occurred in the area of Ilaga, Jila, Hoya, Ermakawiya and Bela where the ground is the Lorentz National Park, and possibly there is a tunnel connecting the area.
“If not, the mining would keep undermining the nature in Papua from the underground, though the forest on the top was protected,” he said.
He stated about the current situation of the international economy policy, in which the regional government is now indirectly under the pressure of the donor countries, in the context to maintain the sustainability of Lorenz National Park.
“So at the end, about 10 regencies where located surrounding the national park are not able to implement the development optimally,” he said.
For instance, he said, Asmat Regency is the area located on the top of water and can not build the capital of regency because it is surrounded by Lorentz National Park.
“We should reveal this fact, therefore it would be a regulation to support the implementation of development without conflict with the legal process,” he said.
He said since 1980, the construction of Trans Irian Jaya crossroad from Sorong to Merauke by the Ministry of Public Works crossed the area of the national park, that it turned an obstacle in the process of development. (*/rom)
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3) FKUB and Kesbangpol Sorong Hold Meeting Anticipating the Post-Terror Security
Sorong, Jubi – Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB) and National and Political Unity (Kesbangpol) Sorong Regency, Papua Barat, held a meeting in order to anticipate the threat to security and public order after the bombing in Medan, North Sumatra some times ago.
Head of Regional Sorong Kesbangpol Adri B. Timban said the meeting was held in Sorong on Wednesday (31/8/2016) to encourage the public for not easily being provoked by the incident.
“We socialize this through youth representatives of each religion,” he said.
He said the latest incident has encouraged the effort to keep maintaining the security and order stability that has been stood since long time ago in Sorong.
Furthermore, ahead to the regional head election in 2017, people were asked to become alert towards the interference of irresponsible parties.
Chairman Deputiy of FKUB Sorong the Rev. Andreas Sesau said the situation in Sorong Regency is relatively secured. Even he admitted FKUB has regularly held a monthly meeting to maintain the stability of security in the region. (*/rom)
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4) Students Cannot Read, Kidman Junior and High School Provide Special Classes
31 August 2016
Merauke, Jubi – A number of junior and high school students in Kimaam were not able to write and read, Chairman of the Commission A of Merauke Regional Legislative Council Moses Kaibu said, urging the school administrators to provide additional classes.
“There are special classes arranged in both Junior and High School Kimaam for a number of students who can not write and read. Teachers must coach and train the children very well,” said Kaibu to reporter at his office on Tuesday (30/8/2016).
He asserted this is occurred on those students because the teachers forcedly passed them when they were at the elementary school. “When they were at the elementary school, the teachers have never been at their duty site. Therefore the children were not well educated,” he asserted.
This condition, he explained, is remaining to be happened until now. Even from his visit to remote area Kimaam, the teachers with civil servant status were not here, but only the contracted teachers.
“I am not questioning the teachers who move to the city to continue their study, because it was a program of the Central Government. But the government should manage it to avoid a vacant of teachers in the village,” he added.
The Head of Education and Learning of Merauke Regency Johanes Samkakai admitted if most of teachers are currently in the town to continue their study as mandated in the regulation to oblige all teachers to get the bachelor degree.
To fill the vacant of teachers in the village, the education office has recruited the contract teachers and delivered them to the remote areas. ‘We have a program hiring the temporarily teachers to teach in several areas, in particular the remote areas,” he said. (*/rom)
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5) Armed Security Personnel Present in Kogoya Pre-trial Hearing
31 August 2016
Jayapura, Jubi – Obby Kogoya’s pretrial court hearing on Tuesday (30/8/2016) at Sleman District Court, Yogyakarta was marred by the presence of four security personnel who stood behind the judge carrying rifles.
Kogoya’s lawyer from LBH Yogyakarta, Emamanuel Gobay, said Wednesday (31/8/2016) two armed personnel were already there when he and Kogoya entered the courtoom, each standing next to the defendant and pleader.
“Then, before the judge came to the courtroom, four mobile brigade officers with long-barreled weapon were stood behind the judge,” said Gobay who then charged objection to the Judge Bagindo Rajoko Harapap before reading the court’s decision.
“We asked the judge to direct the four armed officers to leave the room, as the honor towards the court that must be clean of the arm,” he said.
Then the Judge asked the four officers to leave the courtroom while saying he (the Judge) was earlier examined. “The Judge said he didn’t know about their presence, whether it was the consideration of the court of the police initiative, but surely he didn’t know about it,” Gobay imitating the Judge Bagindo said to him.
For Obby’s lawyer who is indigenous Papuan, the incident of four armed officers was the harassment over the courtroom, “the armed people in the courtroom was the harassment toward the court,” he asserted.
The four mobile brigade officers left the courtroom indeed, but the two provosts were still at their position from the start to the end of the trial. Emanuel Gobay explained the presence of armed personnel at the trial of Obby Kogoya have occurred twice. Besides the recent trial, the trial of evidence on Friday (26/8) was also tainted by the presence of the pleader’s witnesses who take their weapons.
“We had asked the judge to secure their weapons,” said Emanuel. But he also very disappointed with the fact of the strict security procedure inside and outside of the trial, while Obby is only a victim and regular student. Imam Ghazali, reporter for KPM Ekspresi UNY Yogyakarta, who attended the trial also confirmed about this.
“The verdict trial against Obby Kogoya was too exaggerated if must be guarded strictly by armed officers, even they entered the courtroom. This act indicated the officers ignored the applied law in the trial. This act is not suitable with the purpose of the police as the law enforcement but in contrarily violating the law in the trial,” he said through text messange to Jubi on Wednesday afternoon (31/8/2016). Even, he continued, the number of security personnel attended the trial is larger than residents.
Court’s Verdict
LBH Yogyakarta considered the decision of the Judge rejected the pre-trial court of Obby Kogoya and adjusted the police’s act of arrest as the ignorance of the crucial facts. “Whereas during the trial, it was revealed the number of illogical facts in the process of named suspect,” according to LBH Yogyakarta.
The first fact, continued LBH, all the evidences relied upon the police to accuse Obby Kogoya were not obtained in the investigation stage. Then, there are weapons in the courtroom, the Judicial Commission should notice this as the insult against the court. Another fact, the post mortem letter has not a legation as the evidence.
“We asserted once more that Obby Kogoya never conducted the violence against the officers, the named suspect over him was full of manipulation, and during the trial, the police clearly showed their arrogant and racial discrimination,” wrote the statement.
Related to the verdict’s court, Emanuel Gobay would continue is assistance to Obby Kogoya. “He’s still town-prisoner. We have asked the suspension on his arrest with a guarantee that he is a student. If the case was handed to the prosecutor, we would continue the suspension because he is still an active student,” said Gobay.
He also obtained some evidence of video and photographs of the violence perpetrated by officers that would be used for the next advocacy. “This is convicted us, besides some witnesses that they didn’t see Obby do any action. Our witnesses even saw the police who do violence, hitting and beating,” he said.
When asked about the physiological condition of Obby Kogoya who’s now only 20 years old, Gobay said so far he is fine. “I am ready to run this process because basically I am do not do any crime,” said Gobay imitating Obby.(*/rom)
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1) Biak Numfor Keen to Host Sail Cenderawasih
1) Biak Numfor Keen to Host Sail Cenderawasih
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Attempting to develop the Biak Numfor district in Indonesia`s easternmost province of Papua into a leading international tourist destination, the local government is keen to host Sail Cenderawasih Bay as part of Sail Indonesia.
Sail Indonesia is an annual yacht rally that has run every year since 2000, and is supported by the Indonesian central government as well as the local government centers at the destinations the sail participants will visit as they cross the country.
It is a series of sailing and other events, supported by high profile tourist destinations to international yachtsmen and women with a view to expanding the tourism potential and introducing visitors to delightful natural and cultural features of the Indonesian archipelago that they might otherwise not visit.
The Sail Cenderawasih Bay, if implemented, would increase foreign tourist arrivals, Biak Numfor Culture and Tourism Office Head Yubelius Usior stated.
In addition, the foreign tourists coming to the district will have the opportunity to recognize the potential of natural and cultural resources of various districts in the Gulf of Cendrawasih.
The plan to host the international maritime event of Sail Cenderawasih needs assessment and understanding along with the tourism departments in Cenderawasih Bay which covers the districts of Biak Noemfoor, Supiori, Waropen, Yapen Islands, and Nabire, Usior stated.
The future plan about Sail Cenderawasih Bay has been discussed with the representatives of the Tourism Ministry at the opening of Biak Munara Wampasi (BMW) cultural festival at Numfor Island, according to him.
Various potentials of tourism, fisheries and culture in Cenderawasih Bay are very natural and have a special quirk that needs to be combined with the tourism flagship program, Usior admitted.
"The marine nature, culture and forests in Cenderawasih Bay have a lot of potential and need to be made a joint program to increase tourist visits to the region," he remarked.
Every year, Biak Numfor holds a BMW cultural festival to promote a variety of native indigenous cultural attractions and to bring foreign tourists to Padaido Island.
Held from July 1-4, 2016, the BMW cultural festival showcased Japanese traditional "katana" samurai swords from World War II (WW-II) vintage.
The festival was expected to help boost Padaido Islands tourism and the local economy, and will especially benefit traders and small and micro businesses.
The local authorities continue to develop marine tourism in Padaido and Aimando islands by improving various supporting facilities and infrastructure such as home-stay, roads, seaport, and streetlights, according to Usior.
The local government has made Padaido and Aimando Marine Park the center of marine tourism with activities featuring underwater diving around the islands, Usior remarked.
The cluster of Saerrei Bay in Padaido Island stores various types of underwater natural beauty, CEO of WWF Indonesia Benja Mambai admitted separately.
"Due to its underwater beauty, Padaido Island is eligible to be developed into a tourist attraction in the district of Biak Numfor," Mambai said.
In addition to the potential for tourism, Padaido Island region has become a center of research and surveys, nature conservation education, and cultural development of Biak Numfor, he noted.
Further, the Biak Numfor Culture and Tourism Office was determined to develop marine tourism at the Padaido Island to make the district an international tourist destination in eastern Indonesia.
Comprising 30 small islands, Padaido is a small archipelago with its unique attractions that can be developed to make it a leading tourist destination in West Papua.
The cluster of Padaido Islands has alluring beaches and offers varied habitats, such as atolls, reef edges, and underwater caves.
Therefore, the islands need to be developed to boost the local economy by involving the local people, investors, and environmental observers.
Padaido is derived from the local language, which means "inexpressible beauty", and in the past, it was named Schouter after William Schouter, a Dutch sailor who first discovered the islands in 1602.
It takes just an hour from the Bosnik port to reach Padaido using a motor boat, and about 3 to 4 hours using a canoe paddle to the islands, which offer an array of attractions, underwater caves, and tunnels.
The beaches on those islands have cotton-white sand and clear waters allowing the sunlight to reach the seabed, thereby enabling the visitors to enjoy the marine life from the mainland.
Besides having the greatest biodiversity of coral ecosystems in the world, other things that the divers should not miss are challenging underwater caves to be explored, the wrecks of sunken ships, aircraft, and tanks.
Padaido is one of those places blessed with the greatest biodiversity of coral ecosystems in the world, according to a study conducted by Biodiversity Conservation Network (BCN).
The waters of Padaido have 95 coral species and 155 species of fish, such as various types of reef sharks and octopuses and numerous other maritime riches.
The Padaido Island has a reef area spanning about 9,252 acres and 328.2 acres of deep reefs.
Some international divers believe the Padaido beach area has the most spectacular coral reefs in the world, and therefore, this marine park is perfect for diving and snorkeling.
The Biak Numfor district government in Papua aims to promote regional development and empower the local communities who live in primitive conditions.
ANTARA
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http://www.afr.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/letters-tax-solutions-and-west-papua-20160902-gr7dix
Letter in Financial review
2) End the silence on West Papua oppression
I have just returned from a visit to Indonesian-occupied West Papua. Nothing had prepared me for seeing how the West Papuan people are treated in their own land and the overwhelmingly oppressive atmosphere of violence and terror they face every day.
Corruption and intimidation have characterised Indonesian rule in West Papua since 1963, when the United Nations, to its shame, handed over the former Dutch colony to a "transitional administrative Indonesian authority".
Indonesia was allowed to terrorise the people into compliance in a sham referendum in 1969 and has continued to oppress West Papua – one of Australia's closest neighbours – ever since. Indonesia has repeatedly "warned" Australia to hold its tongue on the crimes against humanity being committed in West Papua. The only honourable response that our government – and we as individuals – can make to Indonesia's occupation of and oppression of West Papua is to protest and to do everything in our power to ensure that West Papuans be given an opportunity to have a safe and democratic vote on autonomy. We must not be bystanders, we must demand that the United Nations and our own government do everything in their power to halt the oppression.
West Papuans are a proud and independent minded people. They are forced to live under political, religious and economic oppression, as second class citizens in their own land. They deserve all the help and support that we can give them.
Bill Anderson
Surrey Hills, Vic
3) LGBT Community in Papua Keep Growing Every Year
2 September 2016
Jayapura, Jubi – Chairman of the Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association Jayapura Municipality, Agus Fauzi, said the number of LGBT in Papua is continuously growing each year.
“I will not say the total, as well as the venue where they often hang out together, but the number is growing from year to year as the result of the same sex interaction,” he said at his office in Jayapura on Thursday (1/9/2016).
LGBT, said Agus, apparently started from the interaction between the young people of the productive age. Further, LGBT in Papua already formed a community to accommodate them.
According to him, IPPA already provide socialization to the LGBT community and hope they do not adversely affect the others or transfer their LGBT character to others. “We must do an extra work to disseminate the information to the public that started from 12 years old, the first age of puberty, children must get the education on reproduction health to avoid them to become the LGBT,” said Agus who’s also the Department Head of Special Area of BKKBN (Family Planning Agency) Papua.
In addition to the same sex relationship, according to Agus, the life style is also affecting the LGBT growth. He took an example, if someone had friendship with a perfume seller, he would smell fragrant. If he got a blacksmith friend, he would smell of charcoal.
He said the only way to overcome the LGBT is to provide enforcement and education to the children from an early age and when they grow to be teenagers. “Because of hormonal factor and often hang out with the LGBT, they must become one of them as well. This could be healed; the important is the family’s support. But if you still relate with those persons, you won’t be healed,” he said.
One of LGBT in Abepura who refuse to be named said he was attracted to the men since he was 14 years old. “I don’t know why, but that’s what I feel. Since in the elementary and junior high school, I always get along with the girls. Perhaps this is the reason why I become like this, but I hope I could be just normal like the others,” he said. (*/rom)
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4) 400 Housewives Get Cervical Cancer Checks
1 September 2016
Jayapura, Jubi – The Familiy Planning Coordinating Agency in Papua Region has launched a campaign on the importance for housewives to have cervical cancer checks.
The campaign has been conducted in several regencies targeting about 250 housewives.
Up to now, BKKBN has treated 400 housewives, said the Head of BKKBN Papua Region Charles Brabar to reporter on Wednesday (31/8/2016) during the socialization and IVA/IUD integrated Pap smear service at the yard of BKKN Papua Region Office.
“This is the fifth time we conduct the activity. It was conducted in Keerom, Biak Numfor, Merauke, Jayapura and Jayapura Municipality. Our initial target was 250 women, but we managed to examine 400 women, which is exceeding our set-up target,” he said.
More and more women, at least the housewives, knew about the risk of cervical cancer, then they must aware to maintain the hygiene of their reproductive organ.
“Many deaths caused by HIV/AIDS were occurred among the housewives. So through this socialization, we expected the housewives could spare their time to do the medical check-up or early detection of cervical cancer,” he said.
“Many people are already aware about the importance of the cervical cancer prevention. The cancer must be taken from the cervix. Do not feel embarrassed to check the health of uterus,” said Charles Brabar.
A participant Mrs. Siti said she was very helpful with this socialization in which delivered the specialist, because through the socialization she could learn more about the cervical cancer.
“This is very positive action, I am glad. I asked a lot of questions related to my symptoms. Actually I have consulted this to the doctor, but at least through the socialization I could understand more,” she said.
Though the socialization, she currently knew that the virus of cervical cancer was not entirely from the women, but also could be part of the men. “I don’t know with other people’s marriage. But with the material I got from the socialization, I can discuss it with my husband at home,” she said. (*/rom)
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1) Tuvalu, Nauru join growing group for West Papua
2) West Papuan leader rallies support ahead of summit
3) Pacific coalition on West Papua gains momentum
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http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/312567/tuvalu,-nauru-join-growing-group-for-west-papua
1) Tuvalu, Nauru join growing group for West Papua
12:05 pm today
Two more countries have joined the Pacific Coalition on West Papua, voicing their concerns over human rights abuses in the Indonesian province and asking that the United Nations intervene.The group was set up by the Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, in response to the Melanesian Spearhead Group’s inclusion of Indonesia as an observer and not granting West Papua membership of the group.Tuvalu's PM Enele Sopoaga has added his country to the Pacific Coalition on West Papua Photo: RNZI / Jamie TahanaA number of Pacific heads of government have raised their concerns over West Papua at the United Nations, with the Tongan PM, 'Akilisi Pohiva last year asking the UN to intervene.At a meeting in Honolulu last week, the Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Enele Sopoaga, and Nauru's ambassador to the Pacific nations, Marlene Moses joined the group.Others who have already joined are Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia's FLNKS, and the United Liberation Movement of West Papua and the Pacific Islands Alliance of Non-Governmental Organisations, or PANGO.In August, the MSG leaders deferred a decision on West Papua's membership bid after Fiji and PNG continued to oppose its application.
Tuvalu's PM Enele Sopoaga has added his country to the Pacific Coalition on West Papua Photo: RNZI / Jamie Tahana
A number of Pacific heads of government have raised their concerns over West Papua at the United Nations, with the Tongan PM, 'Akilisi Pohiva last year asking the UN to intervene.
At a meeting in Honolulu last week, the Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Enele Sopoaga, and Nauru's ambassador to the Pacific nations, Marlene Moses joined the group.
Others who have already joined are Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia's FLNKS, and the United Liberation Movement of West Papua and the Pacific Islands Alliance of Non-Governmental Organisations, or PANGO.
In August, the MSG leaders deferred a decision on West Papua's membership bid after Fiji and PNG continued to oppose its application.
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http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/312598/west-papuan-leader-rallies-support-ahead-of-summit
2) West Papuan leader rallies support ahead of summit
5:09 pm today
West Papua's Dr Octo Mote in Majuro Photo: RNZI/Giff Johnson
A West Papua leader says he is the most optimistic he has been in years about gaining support from this week's Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting in the Federated States of Micronesia.
The secretary general of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua, Octo Mote, said support for West Papua human rights and self-determination had been building throughout the island region over the past year.
He said a year ago that just the Melanesian Spearhead Group and Tonga supported them, but this year there was backing from Micronesian, Polynesian and Melanesian countries.
The key to his optimism was the strong advocacy of the Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, who last year appointed the first government envoy for West Papua and provided government funding for his work.
Dr Mote said the Marshall Islands President, Hilda Heine, had made it clear her country was backing the West Papua cause.
He said for the Marshalls human rights was the main issue.
Dr Mote said West Papua's case for self-determination would finally get back to the United Nations Decolonization Committee for review.
The ULMWP asked the Forum to support a call to the UN to review the case of West Papua.
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3) Pacific coalition on West Papua gains momentum
The Pacific Coalition on West Papua (PCWP) is gaining momentum with the addition of two new members and the confirmation of the membership of two other parties who indicated their profound support for the initiative since its introduction in Honiara, Solomon Islands in July this year.The PCWP was initiated by Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare who is also the Chair of the Melanesian Spearhead Group with the aim of securing the support of the wider Pacific region for preposition of taking up the issue of West Papua with the United Nations for intervention. The initial membership comprises Solomon Islands Government, Vanuatu Government, Front de Liberation Nationale Kanak et Socialiste (FLNKS) and the United Liberation Movement of West Papua and the Pacific Islands Alliance of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO).
The two new members are the governments of Tuvalu and the Republic of Nauru who were represented by Prime Minister Enele Sopoaga and Nauru's Ambassador to the United Nations, Marlene Moses.
The other two parties who indicated support for the initiative when it was introduced in Honiara at the margin of the 4th Pacific Islands Development Summit are the Kingdom of Tonga and the Republic of Marshall Islands.
The expressed support of the governments of these two countries was confirmed with the attendance of Prime Minister Akilisi Pohiva and the Republic of Marshall Islands Minister for Public Works, David Paul.
All the initial PCWP members were represented at the meeting in Honolulu Friday except for the Republic of Vanuatu Government. The Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Dame Meg Taylor was also present at the meeting.
In his opening remarks, Prime Minister Sogavare said the nations of the Pacific have a duty as closest neigbours to West Papua to address the issues of concern to West Papuan.
He said the right to self-determination being denied to the people of West Papua since the last 50 years is a fundamental principle of the United Nations Charter, just like the rights to life and dignity that they are also denied as a result of their self-determination pursuit.
He added that the intention of the PCWP is perfectly in line with the principles of human rights and democracy, the very basis of the UN Charter, which all UN Member states should adhere to and protect.
Prime Minister Sogavare said it would not be an easy task to unwind the wrongs that have been perpetrated by the complications and cover-up on the issue of West Papua over the years and this is where the need for collaborative and strategic approaches to this issue comes in.
“Only by working together and strategically dealing with the issue of West Papua can we accomplish the objective of our mission,” he said.
PIF Secretary-General Dame Taylor in her contribution to the discussions presented the forum’s position on the issue. She said the 46th PIF Summit in Port Moresby in 2015 resolved to send a fact-finding mission to West Papua, however the Indonesian Government sees the term ‘fact-finding’ as offensive and therefore that resolution impending implementation.
Dame Taylor said she has meet with the PIF’s Chair, Prime Minister O’Neill of Papua New Guinea and also the Indonesian President on the way forward on the resolution and the PIF’s Chair will meet with the President.
The Secretary-General of the ULMWP, Octovanius Mote said the ULMWP represents the freedom movement of West Papua, which continues to pursue the rights of West Papuans to their land, self-determination and all other human rights enshrined in the United Nations Charter.
Prime Minister Sopoaga of Tuvalu said his country fully appreciates and sympathises with the aspirations and wishes of the people of West Papua to be on their own and fully realises their rights to exist as a country and determine their own continuation as a people.
The Pacific Coalition of West Papua members and friends discussing the way forward for the struggles for self-determination by the people of West Papua.
Minister Paul of the Republic of Marshall Islands said his country sees the issue of West Papua from a humanitarian perspective and humanitarian issues are at the forefront of the Marshall Islands Government.
The FLNKS representative, Rodrigue Tiavouane said the FLNKS fully supports the PCWP initiative and the strategy by which it will be implemented.
He said the FLNKS went through the same process with its self-determination bid- starting with the Melanesian Spearhead Group then on to the Pacific Islands Forum and finally the UN Committee 24 (Special Committee on Decolonisation).
Prime Minister Pohiva of Tonga said it is a moral obligation to address the human rights abuses in West Papua and deteriorating conditions and call for self-determination and independence.
He said at the 70th United Nations General Assembly last year he spoke of how the objectives of good governance and accountability are all impossible without full support for human rights of people in areas of conflict throughout the world including the Pacific Islands.
Ambassador Moses of Nauru said it is important that the issue of West Papua be taken to UN C24 and to be successful it is important for the Pacific to have strong leadership in pursuing it in a strategic manner.
She said what works some people does not always work for others.
PIANGO Tonga Member, Drew Havea said he was encouraged by the leadership on the issue of West Papua displayed by Prime Minister Sogavare.
He said PIANGO acknowledges the pain of the people of West Papua as the pain of the Pacific and would like to urge Pacific leaders to come to an agreement to stop the violence in West Papua and find a peaceful and dignified pathway to self-determination.
The meeting concluded with the expression of commitment by all PCWP members to their mission objective.
SOURCE: SOLOMON ISLANDS PM'S PRESS SECRETARIAT/PACNEWS
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1) West Papua petition tabled in NZ parliament
2) 47th Pacific Islands Forum Meeting Begins Tomorrow in the Federated States of Micronesia
3) Govt shifts to anthropological approach in developing Papua
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1) West Papua petition tabled in NZ parliament
5:23 pm today
A petition has been tabled in New Zealand's parliament calling on the government to make a number of representations on the plight of West Papuans.
The public petition, which garnered 1367 signatures, was handed over to a group of Labour and Greens MPs today before being tabled in the chamber.
It calls on the parliament to urge the New Zealand Government to address the ongoing human rights situation in West Papua by taking a series of actions.
These include publicly advocating for the Indonesian government to uphold the rights of the indigenous people of Papua region, or West Papua, to freedom of assembly and freedom of speech.
It also calls for Indonesia to be condemned for the arrest and intimidation of thousands of peaceful protestors in West Papua in the last two years, as well as the for "state sanctioned torture and killing of West Papuans".
Furthermore, the petition urges New Zealand to support the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression for a visit to West Papua; and to implore the the Pacific Island Forum to also support this stand and advocate for Papua at the UN.
The petition is expected to be sent to Foreign Affairs Select Committee for consideration.
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2) 47th Pacific Islands Forum Meeting Begins Tomorrow in the Federated States of Micronesia
Increasing the economic returns of regional fisheries, and responding to the effects of climate change and disaster risk management are two priority issues that Leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum will discuss at their 47th Meeting in Pohnpei, in the Federated States of Micronesia tomorrow.
Other key issues identified for Leaders to consider under the Framework for Pacific Regionalism include implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, upholding human rights in West Papua, reducing the burden of cervical cancer, coordinating regional information and communications technology, trade integration, and a framework to support the rights of persons with disabilities.
Leaders from the Smaller Island States (SIS) of the Forum meet first on Wednesday 7th September. Their focus will be on an implementation plan for the recently endorsed SIS Strategy. The Strategy highlights 5 key areas – climate change finance, air and sea transport, marine, mobility, and health - that, due to the unique circumstances and vulnerabilities of the SIS, require specific attention.
On Thursday 8th September six representatives of Civil Society from across the region will breakfast with the Forum Troika (Leaders of Papua New Guinea, Federated States of Micronesia and Samoa) to put forward their perspective on the regional agenda. Thursday will also see Pacific Leaders of the African Caribbean Pacific (PACP) grouping meet to discuss future perspectives of the ACP group and post-Cotonou arrangements, current programming of the Pacific Regional Indicative Program under the 11thEuropean Development Fund and other trade and PACP related matters.
The official opening of the 47th Pacific Islands Forum Meeting takes place on Thursday evening in Kolonia, Pohnpei. It is followed by the full Leaders Plenary Session with Associate Members and Observers on the 9th September and a dialogue with private sector representatives. The Leaders Retreat will be held on 10th September. On Sunday the 11th, the Forum’s dialogue partners will meet with Leaders for the Post Forum Dialogue which provides an opportunity to align development support behind the Forum’s policy priorities.
Follow #FSMPIF2016 on social media for updates across the week.
Inquiries can be addressed to: media@forumsec.org
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3) Govt shifts to anthropological approach in developing Papua
Anton Hermansyah The Jakarta Post
Jakarta | Mon, September 5 2016 | 09:10 pm
The government has changed its approach in developing Papua from administration-based development to anthropological-based development.
The development, while also tapping into economic potential, is to be carried out in accordance to the culture of seven areas comprising Mamta, Saireri, Ha Anim, La Pago, Mee Pago, Bomberai and Domberai. Areas like Mamta and La Pago will be focused on plantations.
"The Southern region like Ha Anim, which includes Merauke where many homesteaders reside, will be focused on rice farms," Villages, Disadvantaged Regions and Transmigration Ministry's director general for the development of specific areas, Suprayoga Hadi, told The Jakarta Post on Monday in his office.
He added, the changes in the development approach intend to minimize conflict among Papuan tribes while also improving the welfare of the Papuan people.
By clustering the regions based on cultural similarities, the government expects the development of local resources to be better optimized.
"The groupings based on cultural dimensions were actually used by the Dutch colonial government in 1934. We need to learn why Papuan people during the colonial era lived in relative peace," Suprayoga said. (ags)
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1) West Papua an issue to be pursued, says Forum Secretary General
2) Pacific NGO’s pleased with Forum engagement space
3) Govt to build border regions into investment-preferred areas
4) Papua Police Chief: Investigation on Sugapa Case Will Be Transparent
5) Papua Transportation Office Upbeat About Airport Construction Projects
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1) West Papua an issue to be pursued, says Forum Secretary General
By Nic Maclellan (Islands Business magazine) in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia
The issue of West Papua will be on the agenda at this week’s Pacific Islands Forum, in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia.
Dame Meg Taylor, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, says that West Papua is a sensitive issue for some Pacific governments, but one that needs to be debated.
“It’s an issue that needs to be pursued and it’s not going to go away,” she said. “Our bigger countries in the region like Australia and New Zealand realise that this issue is just not going to go to sleep – and it shouldn’t go to sleep, because it is very important for our region.”
At last year’s Forum in Port Moresby, West Papua was one of five core topics proposed to Forum leaders through the Framework on Pacific Regionalism – a new mechanism to develop regional policy and collective action.
In the final communique from the Port Moresby summit, Pacific leaders reaffirmed Indonesia’s sovereignty over the two Papuan provinces but “called on all parties to protect and uphold the human rights of all residents in Papua and to work to address the root causes of such conflicts by peaceful means.”
Forum Chair PNG Prime Minister Peter O’Neill was tasked to approach Indonesia to propose a Forum fact-finding mission to West Papua. As outgoing chair, O’Neill will report back to this week’s meeting in Pohnpei, but Indonesia has already made it clear that any mission is unwelcome.
In Pohnpei, Dame Meg Taylor confirmed that the Indonesian Embassy in Suva has told the Forum Secretariat that Jakarta would not welcome a Forum delegation, and was uncomfortable with the term “fact-finding.”
Indonesia is clearly unhappy that the issue of human rights is being connected to broader questions of self-determination, in a region where independence movements in New Caledonia, Bougainville and Guam are preparing for referendums or plebiscites on their political status.
Speaking after a ministerial meeting in Australia last December, Indonesia’s Defence Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu – a former army chief of staff - said that West Papua should not be an issue for regional discussion:
“There are countries that are getting involved in the issue of Papua. For us, Papua is in the United Republic of Indonesia. There is no other solution to talk about it, that’s it, that’s the way it is. So this is so that everyone will know that that doesn’t need to be spoken about.”
Even with the Forum constrained by the policies of larger members like Australia, Papua New Guinea and Fiji, other Pacific Islands countries have continued to advocate for West Papua on the regional and international stage.
At the 2015 summit of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), Melanesian leaders granted associate membership to Indonesia, but also observer status to the United Liberation Movement of West Papua (ULMWP), the umbrella organisation for West Papuan nationalist groups campaigning for self-determination.
The ULMWP’s bid for full membership of the MSG has been blocked by Papua New Guinea and Fiji, despite support from the other three MSG members: Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia’s independence movement Front de Liberation Nationale Kanak et Socialiste (FLNKS).
Under Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, Solomon Islands has expanded its diplomatic support for the West Papuan nationalist movement, aligning with long-standing supporters like Vanuatu and the FLNKS.
On the sidelines of last week’s Pacific Islands Leaders Conference (PICL) in Honolulu, Prime Minister Sogavare convened a meeting of the People’s Coalition on West Papua, first proposed last July.
As Forum leaders arrive in Pohnpei for this week’s summit, Forum Secretary General Taylor notes: “The Prime Minister of Solomon Islands has called together other countries that are interested in pursuing an alternative strategy to ensure that the issues pertinent to West Papua are raised at the international level.”
Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and the FLNKS are now joined by Nauru, Tuvalu, Tonga and Marshall Islands, which have expressed support for self-determination and an end to human rights abuses in West Papua. The Coalition also includes the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO), reflecting growing public awareness on the issue, as information from within West Papua is shared internationally through social media.
Noting that the MSG was also split on the issue, Dame Meg acknowledged that Forum debate would continue to be a sensitive one for the regional organisation: “The challenge here is - will there be a consensus amongst all the leaders of the Pacific?”
Prime Minister Sogavare will not attend this Saturday’s leaders’ retreat, but the debate will continue in the region and internationally. Next April, Indonesia must submit its five-yearly Universal Periodic Review on human rights to the United Nations Human Rights Council, and the issue of West Papua will be central to the review.
The ongoing issue of impunity for human rights abuses in Indonesia has been re-kindled by the recent appointment of an indicted war criminal, General (retired) Wiranto, as Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Politics, Law and Security Affairs. In 2003, Wiranto was indicted by a UN-backed court for his role as commander of the military in the security force violence during Timor-Leste's 1999 independence vote.
Despite pledges to improve dialogue with West Papuan leaders in Jayapura, Wiranto’s appointment by Indonesia’s President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo has signalled that the army and police will continue to play a central role in Indonesia’s democratic transition.
As West Papuans continue to seek regional support in the Pacific islands, “this issue is just not going to go to sleep, said Dame Meg.
SOURCE: ISLANDS BUSINESS/PACNEWS
Read more: http://news.pngfacts.com/2016/09/west-papua-issue-to-be-pursued-says.html#ixzz4JVfs6jkL
The issue of West Papua will be on the agenda at this week’s Pacific Islands Forum, in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia.
Dame Meg Taylor, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, says that West Papua is a sensitive issue for some Pacific governments, but one that needs to be debated.
“It’s an issue that needs to be pursued and it’s not going to go away,” she said. “Our bigger countries in the region like Australia and New Zealand realise that this issue is just not going to go to sleep – and it shouldn’t go to sleep, because it is very important for our region.”
At last year’s Forum in Port Moresby, West Papua was one of five core topics proposed to Forum leaders through the Framework on Pacific Regionalism – a new mechanism to develop regional policy and collective action.
In the final communique from the Port Moresby summit, Pacific leaders reaffirmed Indonesia’s sovereignty over the two Papuan provinces but “called on all parties to protect and uphold the human rights of all residents in Papua and to work to address the root causes of such conflicts by peaceful means.”
Forum Chair PNG Prime Minister Peter O’Neill was tasked to approach Indonesia to propose a Forum fact-finding mission to West Papua. As outgoing chair, O’Neill will report back to this week’s meeting in Pohnpei, but Indonesia has already made it clear that any mission is unwelcome.
In Pohnpei, Dame Meg Taylor confirmed that the Indonesian Embassy in Suva has told the Forum Secretariat that Jakarta would not welcome a Forum delegation, and was uncomfortable with the term “fact-finding.”
Indonesia is clearly unhappy that the issue of human rights is being connected to broader questions of self-determination, in a region where independence movements in New Caledonia, Bougainville and Guam are preparing for referendums or plebiscites on their political status.
Speaking after a ministerial meeting in Australia last December, Indonesia’s Defence Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu – a former army chief of staff - said that West Papua should not be an issue for regional discussion:
“There are countries that are getting involved in the issue of Papua. For us, Papua is in the United Republic of Indonesia. There is no other solution to talk about it, that’s it, that’s the way it is. So this is so that everyone will know that that doesn’t need to be spoken about.”
Even with the Forum constrained by the policies of larger members like Australia, Papua New Guinea and Fiji, other Pacific Islands countries have continued to advocate for West Papua on the regional and international stage.
At the 2015 summit of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), Melanesian leaders granted associate membership to Indonesia, but also observer status to the United Liberation Movement of West Papua (ULMWP), the umbrella organisation for West Papuan nationalist groups campaigning for self-determination.
The ULMWP’s bid for full membership of the MSG has been blocked by Papua New Guinea and Fiji, despite support from the other three MSG members: Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia’s independence movement Front de Liberation Nationale Kanak et Socialiste (FLNKS).
Under Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, Solomon Islands has expanded its diplomatic support for the West Papuan nationalist movement, aligning with long-standing supporters like Vanuatu and the FLNKS.
On the sidelines of last week’s Pacific Islands Leaders Conference (PICL) in Honolulu, Prime Minister Sogavare convened a meeting of the People’s Coalition on West Papua, first proposed last July.
As Forum leaders arrive in Pohnpei for this week’s summit, Forum Secretary General Taylor notes: “The Prime Minister of Solomon Islands has called together other countries that are interested in pursuing an alternative strategy to ensure that the issues pertinent to West Papua are raised at the international level.”
Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and the FLNKS are now joined by Nauru, Tuvalu, Tonga and Marshall Islands, which have expressed support for self-determination and an end to human rights abuses in West Papua. The Coalition also includes the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO), reflecting growing public awareness on the issue, as information from within West Papua is shared internationally through social media.
Noting that the MSG was also split on the issue, Dame Meg acknowledged that Forum debate would continue to be a sensitive one for the regional organisation: “The challenge here is - will there be a consensus amongst all the leaders of the Pacific?”
Prime Minister Sogavare will not attend this Saturday’s leaders’ retreat, but the debate will continue in the region and internationally. Next April, Indonesia must submit its five-yearly Universal Periodic Review on human rights to the United Nations Human Rights Council, and the issue of West Papua will be central to the review.
The ongoing issue of impunity for human rights abuses in Indonesia has been re-kindled by the recent appointment of an indicted war criminal, General (retired) Wiranto, as Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Politics, Law and Security Affairs. In 2003, Wiranto was indicted by a UN-backed court for his role as commander of the military in the security force violence during Timor-Leste's 1999 independence vote.
Despite pledges to improve dialogue with West Papuan leaders in Jayapura, Wiranto’s appointment by Indonesia’s President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo has signalled that the army and police will continue to play a central role in Indonesia’s democratic transition.
As West Papuans continue to seek regional support in the Pacific islands, “this issue is just not going to go to sleep, said Dame Meg.
SOURCE: ISLANDS BUSINESS/PACNEWS
Read more: http://news.pngfacts.com/2016/09/west-papua-issue-to-be-pursued-says.html#ixzz4JVfs6jkL
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Pacific civil society organisations are pleased with the improved engagement they are being accorded by the Pacific Island Forum.
One aspect of this was a leaders breakfast with civil society heads first held last year in Papua New Guinea and again being proposed ahead of this year's Forum leaders meeting in Pohnpei on Thursday.
This also includes having the main outcomes of a Micronesia Civil Society Roundtable held this week being presented to the Forum Secretary General Dame Meg Taylor for inclusion in the leaders meeting.
These include issues around the need for attention and policy discussions on climate migration, West Papua, gender-based violence, disabilities, youth development and strengthening regionalism particular with Northern Pacific states and territories.
PIANGO Executive Director, Emele Duituturanga. Photo: supplied
The Executive Director of the Pacific Islands Association of NGOs Emele Duituturanga said the increased engagement is an encouraging start towards having more issues and concerns of the people of the Pacific being heard by Forum leaders.
"There are a couple of issues there that if not for Civil Society wouldn't be going to the leaders and so we have a stake and we have a great sense of ownership that the leaders do discuss these issues that we put before them and they do consider the reccomendations that we have also been involved in formulating," she said.
Following the Civil Society Roundtable there was also a call for the Forum to strengthen development ties with Micronesia.
More than 50 representatives from Nauru, Marshall Islands, Guam, the Northern Marianas and the Federated States of Micronesia were joined by their counterparts from Australia, Fiji, Samoa and Tonga for the meeting.
Micronesian board representative of the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Government Organisations Sarah Thomas Nededog said the call for more vigorous regionalism arose because the Northern Pacific was not well informed about the policy processes of the Pacific Islands Forum.
The CSO Roundtable was organised with support from the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and the European Union.
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3) Govt to build border regions into investment-preferred areas
Anton Hermansyah The Jakarta Post
Jakarta | Tue, September 6 2016 | 06:25 am
Despite budget cuts that have reduced the government’s capacity in running programs, the Villages, Disadvantaged Regions and Transmigration Ministry has maintained efforts to focus on developing border regions into preferred investment destinations.
The ministry saw a Rp 2.08 trillion (US$158.18 million) cut in its budget allocation this year, which greatly reduced the government’s capacity to develop remote areas and border regions, the ministry’s director general for the development of specific areas, Suprayoga Hadi, told The Jakarta Post at his office in Jakarta on Monday.
However, he reiterated that the government would not scale back its priority to develop border regions and would offer incentives to potential investors.
“We believe if incentives, such as a tax allowance and special economic zone status, are applied to border areas, investors will be eager to develop the areas," Suprayoga said.
Currently, five border regencies are being prioritized, namely Morotai (North Maluku), Sarmi (Papua), Sabu Raijua (East Nusa Tenggara), Western Southeast Maluku and East Lombok (West Nusa Tenggara). Morotai has been declared a special economic zone for tourism.
"Morotai is just a model. It is not necessarily to be a special economic zone, but at least we need to negotiate with other ministries to make other border regions enjoy almost the same incentives as that of Morotai," Suprayoga said. (ags)
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4) Papua Police Chief: Investigation on Sugapa Case Will Be Transparent
3 Sept 2016
Jayapura, Jubi – Papua Police Chief Inspector General Paulus Waterpauw promised transparency in handling the investigation into the shooting of Otinus Sondegau, 15, allegedly perpetrated by a Mobile Brigade officer last month.
He said the police would not cover up the investigation the events that led to Otinus’ untimely death.
“We will investigate the incident. We will be transparent in handling this case. After the incident, we promptly sent a team to Sugapa. Deputy Chief Inspector General Rudolf Alberth Rodja was leading the team,” said the chief on last week.
Police investigators have questioned 23 witnesses. including 8 civilians who live near the scene, 10 Mobile Brigade officers and 14 local police officers.
One of the witnesses from the civilian group is a rental car driver who asked for help to Sugapa Police Station.
“Basically they confessed, knew and saw the incident at the moment. As well as the mobile brigade officers who admitted to fire the warning shot at the location around the victim,” he said.
In addition, before the victim was buried, the police investigation team asked permission to the family to do a post mortem over the body. In this investigation, the Papua Police team doesn’t work alone but supported by a team from the Indonesian Police Headquarters.
The police are currently investigating the shooting perpetrator. Papua Police team has repositioned to find out the position of the witnesses in the time of the incident, whether they were civilians, mobile brigade or Sugapa police officers.
“The scene investigation has been done as well. But the cause of the victim’s death is still under further examination. Based on the post mortem report, the shot was allegedly not straight hitting the victim but came from the back and penetrated down to the chest. The relevance of the finding is the shot wasn’t come from the close range. It might come from 100 meters or more,” he said. (*/rom)
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3 Sept 2016
5) Papua Transportation Office Upbeat About Airport Construction Projects
Jayapura, Jubi – Papua Transportation Office said it remained optimistic it would realize airport construction projects in the province.
The Head of Papua Transportation Office Djuli Mambaya said there is no reason for airport construction in Papua to be delayed, because it would directly connect to those who live in the sub-districts or remote areas.
“Currently we are focusing to the airport in Sugapa, Intan Jaya, while Mamit Airport in Tolikara is also a concern,” he said.
About the construction, said Djuli, the provincial transportation office is currently reviewing the contract, including the airport construction in Mamit, in Sugapa and some other regions. “We have checked the airports along with our staffs and consultants including those from PPTK,” he said.
According to him, he has reviewed the contract document and ready to sign it, then the construction process could be run, and we are very optimistic that it could be completed. “The contract document has been on my table, after the signing, the construction could be done,” he said.
Earlier, Papua Governor Lukas Enembe has launched new passenger terminal building and airport apron in Oksibil Airport, Pegunungan Bintang Regency some times ago.
“We hope the new terminal building and apron in Oksibil Airport could be used and benefited by people,” said Enembe.
Meanwhile, the Head of Oksibil Airport Frits J. Ayomi said new passenger terminal building and airport apron in Oksibil Airport were built using the Regional Budget of Pegunungan Bintang Regency. “The governor only launched the building, while the operation would be implemented in 2018,” said Ayomi. (*/rom)
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1) Climate, fisheries and Papua on Forum agenda
3) Border areas can become primer drivers of Indonesia’s economy: Ministry
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1) Climate, fisheries and Papua on Forum agenda
7 minutes ago
Increasing economic returns from fisheries and responding to the effects of climate change are two of the priorities for the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting which opens in the Federated States of Micronesia tomorrow.
Leaders from 16 independent and self-governing states in the region including Australia and New Zealand will be in Pohnpei until Sunday to talk about the Forum's "Framework for Pacific Regionalism."
Another key area to be discussed refers to regional concerns about human rights abuses and self-determination issues in West Papua.
The Forum Secretary General, Dame Meg Taylor, says West Papua remains a sensitive issue for some Pacific governments, but one that needs to be debated.
She told a pre-Forum media workshop in Pohnpei that bigger countries in the region like Australia and New Zealand realise that this issue was not going to fade away as it is very important for Pacific.
At last year's Forum summit in Port Moresby a decision was reached to push Indonesia to allow a fact-finding mission on West Papua.
The Forum has been criticised by civil society over the fact that after a year there's been no movement on this front - however Dame Meg said Jakarta has indicated it would not welcome a Forum delegation, and was uncomfortable with the term "fact-finding."
How the summit is scheduled
Leaders from smaller island states of the Forum met on Wednesday to talk about implementation of the recently endorsed Small Islands States Strategy.
This looks at addressing the unique challenges they face with climate change finance, air and sea transport, marine conservation, mobility and health.
Tomorrow begins with a leaders breakfast with Pacific civil society leaders who will give their take on the regional development agenda.
This will be followed by a meeting of Pacific leaders of the African Caribbean Pacific group on the future of the ACP group and trade matters.
An official opening ceremony for the 47th Pacific Islands Forum Meeting will take place in the evening in Kolonia.
The full Leaders Plenary Session with Associate Members and Observers will take place on Friday along with a dialogue with private sector representatives.
Leaders go to their special retreat on Saturday, with the Post -Forum Dialogue sessions scheduled for Sunday when Forum members meet with various partners to align development support behind policy priorities.
NZ must put more into Pacific climate battle - MP
As the New Zealand prime minister John Key heads for the Forum summit, an opposition Labour MP says this country has to make a much bigger effort to help the Pacific adapt to climate change.
The comments from Labour's climate change spokesperson, Su'a William Sio, come after OXFAM called for more aid to help countries adapt to changes that are already happening.
Echoing the OXFAM report, Su'a said Pacific countries continued to struggle to access the funding supposedly available through the Green Climate Fund.
He said the rules in place made it virtually impossible for the small and vulnerable nations to access it.
New Zealand MPs (from left) Louisa Wall, Su'a William Sio and Carmel Sepuloni. Photo: RNZI / Johnny Blades
Su'a asked what New Zealand would do if a major storm battered the most vulnerable nations like, Tuvalu, Kiribati, or Tokelau.
"We need to have a greater commitment and increase our commitment to the Pacific because the Pacific is sort of the canary in the coalmine," he explained.
"They are in danger and that danger in the Pacific will also impact on us."
Su'a William Sio is also one of a group of around ten New Zealand MPs who have been calling for the international community to do more to hold Indonesia to account for restrictions and rights abuses in West Papua.
In parliament this week, he and other MPs tabled a petition calling on the government to make a number of representations on the plight of West Papuans.
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2) Guam forum highlights legacy of colonialism in Pacific
07 Sep 2016 By Louella Losinio - louella@postguam.com - For Variety
HAGÅTÑA (The Guam Daily Post) — The quest for self-determination and voting rights, as well as the legacies of colonialism bound some nations in the Pacific, as mentioned in the Community Forum Series: “From New Caledonia to Guahan: Status Updates on the Decolonization Process,” which was recently held at the University of Guam.
Maclellan described West Papua’s continued bid for self-determination, where a violent conflict resulted in the death of thousands of people during the 1990s, and a determination of the nation’s political status in the future.
West Papua is a province in the far east of Indonesia, which shares borders with Papua New Guinea to the east. It was previously a Dutch colony and continued to be under its control until the mid-20th century.
He also focused on New Caledonia, a French territory described as a multi-ethnic society with an indigenous population of around 44 percent. According to Maclellan, the South Pacific nation will move into a referendum on its political status in two years’ time.
Maclellan also described the events leading to the referendum in 2018, such as the signing of the Noumea Accord in May 1998, which maps out the transition of the nation within a 20-year time frame. The accord promises to grant political power to New Caledonia and its indigenous population — the Kanaks.
According to Maclellan, New Caledonia’s experience could be used by Guam.
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3) Border areas can become primer drivers of Indonesia’s economy: Ministry
Anton Hermansyah The Jakarta Post
Jakarta | Tue, September 6 2016 | 04:24 pm
The Villages, Disadvantaged Regions and Transmigration Ministry is striving to develop border areas where investors can put their investments, making them the prime drivers of Indonesia’s economy.
The ministry’s special region development director general Suprayoga Hadi said the government was committed to developing big border posts, where people could settle and create economic potential.
He further explained that in Entikong, a border post in West Kalimantan, which borders on Sarawak, Malaysia, Indonesian workers of various ethnicities, including Bugis and Banjar people from South Sulawesi and South Kalimantan respectively, usually brought their all family members there.
"Many of those people work in Malaysia, but they bring their families to stay in Entikong and send their children to school there. They visit their families in Entikong once a week, bringing them money they earn in Malaysia,” Suprayoga told The Jakarta Post at his office in Jakarta on Monday. If such a situation could be continuously maintained, there would be more skilled human resources in Indonesian border areas and this would be a good investment for the future, he said.
"Although we cannot develop prime infrastructure such as roads, since their development is the responsibility of the Public Works [and Public Housing] Ministry, we will build supporting infrastructure such as sanitation and solar cell electricity so the [border] areas can be developed further," Suprayoga said.
The government through the Public Works and Public Housing Ministry is currently carrying forward developments in several border areas. Nine border posts are to be finished by the end of 2016. They comprise Motaain, Motamasin, Oepoli and Wini in East Nusa Tenggara, Aruk, Nanga Badau and Entikong in West Kalimantan and Skow and Waris in Papua. (ebf)
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1) Pacific NGO lobbies hard for West Papua
2) West Papua leader optimistic about Forum leaders action
3) Papuans to wait another day for development
4) Indonesian government to investigate Korean palm oil giant over burning in Papua
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1) Pacific NGO lobbies hard for West Papua
Photo from Islands Business post
By Samisoni Pareti at the 47th Pacific Islands Forum in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia.
Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia -- Pacific civil society organisation representatives have put in a strong bid for Pacific leaders to support the involvement of the United Nations in the case of the people of West Papua.
This was one of the key points CSO reps submitted during their scheduled breakfast meeting in Pohnpei today with members of the Pacific Islands Forum troika, comprising the past, current and future chair of the 16-member island group.
Outgoing chair and Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Peter O’Neil was absent from today’s breakfast as he is not due to arrive into the FSM until later today. His Foreign Minister Rimbink Pato stood in for him.
This was one of the key points CSO reps submitted during their scheduled breakfast meeting in Pohnpei today with members of the Pacific Islands Forum troika, comprising the past, current and future chair of the 16-member island group.
Outgoing chair and Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Peter O’Neil was absent from today’s breakfast as he is not due to arrive into the FSM until later today. His Foreign Minister Rimbink Pato stood in for him.
“What was encouraging in the dialogue was the consideration and the recognition that the United Nations process is available,” head of the Pacific Islands NGO Association, Emele Duituturaga told journalists at the end of the breakfast meeting.
“We detected an acceptance that this possibly could be one of the pathways. I think the difference is that up until now, we always thought this is a Melanesian issue. In our recommendations, we tried to assist our leaders recognise some of the bilateral arrangements, bilateral assistance that somehow might be hindering the options we need to look at.”
“We detected an acceptance that this possibly could be one of the pathways. I think the difference is that up until now, we always thought this is a Melanesian issue. In our recommendations, we tried to assist our leaders recognise some of the bilateral arrangements, bilateral assistance that somehow might be hindering the options we need to look at.”
Speaking to journalists at the end of the breakfast meeting, Samoa’s Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Neioti Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi confirmed that the CSO reps raised the issue of West Papua, but declined to be drawn into what the Forum leaders would decide.
“There are two issues involved here, that is human rights and self determination. Human rights is okay, we can address it in a normal situation but when it comes to the issue of self determination, then there are processes that we must follow.
“In saying this, I did mention that what arises in West Papua is very similar to the situation of what my own country went through when we agitated to become independent. Of course later the
“There are two issues involved here, that is human rights and self determination. Human rights is okay, we can address it in a normal situation but when it comes to the issue of self determination, then there are processes that we must follow.
“In saying this, I did mention that what arises in West Papua is very similar to the situation of what my own country went through when we agitated to become independent. Of course later the
United Nations came in and guide us along the path to final independence in 1962. So the processes are there, and those are the formal ones to take.”
Pushed by Pacnews as to what his recommendations would be to his fellow leaders when they meet on Saturday at the debate chamber of the FSM Congress for their annual retreat, Tuilaepa replied: “Well its already incorporated, and we will discuss this at the retreat. At this time your question has been posed but I cannot disclose to you what we will talk about. This is why we arrange the meeting of the Forum to have retreats so that we can discuss.”
Pacnews: As next year’s chair of Forum, will you push for some concrete decision on West Papua? Many submissions have been received from the people of the Pacific for action on West Papua, just like last year’s Forum, but last year’ Forum did nothing on West Papua.
PM Tuilaepa: Yes, (laughs) you are trying to speculate. Never speculate on sensitive issues.
Pacnews: So would you like to put the speculations to rest sir?
PM Tuilaepa: All I can say is, have faith in God!
Ms Duituturaga told Pacnews later that her group of 16 CSO reps gave “all they wanted to submit” at today’s meeting, and it is now up to the leaders to decide. Her group also raised the issues of youth unemployment, gender based violence, disability, decolonisation and self-determination.
Pushed by Pacnews as to what his recommendations would be to his fellow leaders when they meet on Saturday at the debate chamber of the FSM Congress for their annual retreat, Tuilaepa replied: “Well its already incorporated, and we will discuss this at the retreat. At this time your question has been posed but I cannot disclose to you what we will talk about. This is why we arrange the meeting of the Forum to have retreats so that we can discuss.”
Pacnews: As next year’s chair of Forum, will you push for some concrete decision on West Papua? Many submissions have been received from the people of the Pacific for action on West Papua, just like last year’s Forum, but last year’ Forum did nothing on West Papua.
PM Tuilaepa: Yes, (laughs) you are trying to speculate. Never speculate on sensitive issues.
Pacnews: So would you like to put the speculations to rest sir?
PM Tuilaepa: All I can say is, have faith in God!
Ms Duituturaga told Pacnews later that her group of 16 CSO reps gave “all they wanted to submit” at today’s meeting, and it is now up to the leaders to decide. Her group also raised the issues of youth unemployment, gender based violence, disability, decolonisation and self-determination.
The breakfast meeting at Cliff Rainbow Hotel on the waterfront of Pohnpei went overtime, finishing more than one hour behind schedule. Prime Minister Tuilaepa has offered to upgrade the dialogue with CSO when his country hosts the Forum next year.
“Dialogue with the 16 governments of our Pacific leaders Forum can only be all inclusive when they address these issues and all the 16 leaders listen. If there are only 5 of us, we are the only ones that will benefit from their direct views and contributions.
“It does not mean that we will fully convey all the issues. We are in an imperfect world where many things can happen and we may not be able to convey 100% the issues they have raised. It is better that they voice their aspirations in the presence of all the 16 leaders. In that way, there is no secondary information. It comes straight from the horse’s mouth.”
The Forum Leaders summit proper gets underway tomorrow at the Gymnasium of the College of Micronesia in Palikir, Pohnpei. Today, the Pacific members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific grouping, are meeting to discuss common issues, including the collapsed trade negotiations for an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the European Union.
The Forum meeting will conclude on Sunday with the traditional Post Forum Dialogue where Forum leaders or their representatives meet and consult with donor governments and development partners.
“Dialogue with the 16 governments of our Pacific leaders Forum can only be all inclusive when they address these issues and all the 16 leaders listen. If there are only 5 of us, we are the only ones that will benefit from their direct views and contributions.
“It does not mean that we will fully convey all the issues. We are in an imperfect world where many things can happen and we may not be able to convey 100% the issues they have raised. It is better that they voice their aspirations in the presence of all the 16 leaders. In that way, there is no secondary information. It comes straight from the horse’s mouth.”
The Forum Leaders summit proper gets underway tomorrow at the Gymnasium of the College of Micronesia in Palikir, Pohnpei. Today, the Pacific members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific grouping, are meeting to discuss common issues, including the collapsed trade negotiations for an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the European Union.
The Forum meeting will conclude on Sunday with the traditional Post Forum Dialogue where Forum leaders or their representatives meet and consult with donor governments and development partners.
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Category: Pacific/Regional News07 Sep 2016 By Giff Johnson - For Variety
MAJURO — A West Papua leader is the most optimistic he has been in years about gaining support from this week’s Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia.
Support for West Papua human rights and self-determination has been building throughout the island region over the past year, said Octovianus Mote, the secretary general of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua, who lives in exile in the United States.
“Last year, the Melanesian Spearhead Group and Tonga were the only ones supporting us,” said Mote, who was in Majuro to meet President Hilda Heine and government leaders in advance of the Forum summit that opens Wednesday in Pohnpei. “This year, we have support from Micronesian, Polynesian and Melanesian countries.”
Key to his optimism is the strong advocacy of Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, who last year appointed the first government envoy for West Papua and provided government funding for his work.
In his meeting with President Heine, Mote said she “made it clear, the Marshall Islands will support us. For the Marshall Islands, human rights is the main issue.”
In the region, there are some Melanesian countries that do not have a clear policy on West Papua’s struggle for independence from Indonesia. “But on human rights violations by Indonesia, there is no debate on it,” Mote said. “Human rights violations and the struggle for independence are not different issues. Indonesia is violating West Papua’s basic right to self-determination.”
Mote believes their case for self-determination will finally get back to the United Nations Decolonization Committee for review. West Papua independence leaders have asked the Forum to support a call to the U.N. to review the case of West Papua.
The fact that Indonesia turned down the Sogavare government’s request for its West Papua diplomat to visit Jakarta speaks volumes about Indonesia’s attitude toward West Papua, Mote said. “The aim is to open dialogue, but Jakarta says ‘no,’” he said, adding that island nations have been under intense pressure from Jakarta to ignore the West Papua issue. “Indonesia’s arrogance is unbelievable,” he said.
The blunt truth, said Mote, is that West Papua is facing a policy of genocide by Indonesia, and if West Papua does not get help from the United Nations by 2020, it will be too late. “Indonesia is using sovereignty as a means to slaughter people,” Mote said. “Australia says this is an ‘internal issue.’ No, it is not. Sovereignty is not a reason to slaughter your own people.”
Human rights atrocities and genocide policies have been well documented by several human rights reports in recent years. “Even the Indonesian Human Rights Commission admitted crimes against humanity (were committed by Indonesia in West Papua),” he said.
The military has killed hundreds of thousands of civilians by wiping out entire villages in remote areas with targeted military operations, he said. The Jakarta government encourages Indonesians to relocate to West Papua, and the military is paving highways and cutting down forests to make way for new settlements through West Papua. “West Papua is so rich in natural resources,” Mote said. “We see all these people coming in every day to fill up our country. When we try to defend our way of life and our land, we are accused of disrupting the government’s development programs.”
Despite more than a dozen nations raising concerns about human rights abuses by Indonesia during its Universal Periodic Review before the U.N. Human Rights Council in 2012, “Indonesia just ignores it,” he said.
He said access to social media and the Internet has been a turning point for West Papua. “We praise the lord that today we have social media so we can get the word out internationally any time,” Mote said. “It is really empowering the movement to free West Papua.”
But, he said, if there isn’t action in the next four years, it will be too late. “2020 is the end,” he said. “By then West Papuans will be less than 25 percent of the population, and we won’t be able to elect political leaders.”
Mote is hopeful that the Forum summit this week in Pohnpei will support taking the West Papua situation to the United Nations for review. “Last year, the Forum agreed to send a fact finding mission to West Papua, but Indonesia wouldn’t allow it,” Mote said. “They said it was ‘out of your mandate.’ There is no reason for the Forum to ask ‘allow us to come in’ again. It’s time to bring this to the United Nations. That’s what we want.”
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3) Papuans to wait another day for development
Farida Susanty The Jakarta Post
Jakarta | Thu, September 8 2016 | 06:41 am
Many Indonesians know Vina Panduwinata’s song “September Ceria”, which tells of happiness and new hope in the month of September. However, for Papuans, September will instead dim their hopes of development in their region.
Beni Wetipo, 45, and Elianus Lokbere, 30, felt relieved because a 92-kilometer-long road had recently been constructed to connect Wamena, Mbua and Kenyam in Papua province.
Kompas reported on Aug. 22 that Mbua residents such as Beni and Elianus previously had to walk for five days to reach Wamena or pay Rp 600,000 (US$45.85) per person for a pioneer flight because of the lack of basic infrastructure, namely roads.
Unfortunately, the road may be the only new facility Papuans enjoy this year because the whole trans-Papua road program is now on the brink of a major overhaul as a result of state budget cuts, potentially leaving other Papuans without infrastructure for longer, unlike their fellow countrymen in the western regions.
The government has announced that it will cut spending by Rp 137 trillion this year and the Public Works and Public Housing Ministry is among the ministries that will suffer from the austerity measure.
The ministry, which is responsible for most infrastructure projects, will see as many as Rp 6.9 trillion removed from its budget, with almost half of the figure slashed from its Bina Marga Directorate General, which oversees road construction.
Of the cut within Bina Marga, 30 percent might be sourced from the total targeted development of a 4,325-km road project, which connects cities like Manokwari in West Papua province to Oksibil and Wamena in Papua.
“The road construction in West Papua might be the most affected by the move,” Bina Marga Director General Hediyanto Husaini said. Data from the ministry show that it is supposed to build 207.3 km of new roads in Papua and West Papua this year and continue with an additional 176.1 km in 2017.
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has actually pledged to bring more inclusive development to Papua during his visits to the resource-rich region, including the construction of a railway, but work on it is facing delays as well.
The Transportation Ministry has pushed back the trans-Papua railway’s introduction to 2017 from the original schedule of this year’s first half. Transportation Ministry Director General for railways Prasetyo Boeditjahjono attributed the delay to both budget and land acquisition problems as it would see Rp 1.7 trillion cut from its budget.
The railway is planned to span a 1,550-km-long route connecting Sorong in West Papua to Jayapura in Papua. The first phase to be built is the 390-km Sorong to Manokwari track, which is expected to be completed between 2020 and 2024.
However, according to data from the Transportation Ministry, no Papua-related development has been included in its 2017 railway transportation plan. Instead, the ministry plans to spend Rp 18 trillion next year through its directorate general for railways to build a double-track railway project in southern Java and develop both the trans-Sumatra and trans-Sulawesi railway projects.
Gadjah Mada University economist A. Tony Prasetiantono said the budget cuts would make it even more difficult to increase efficiency in Papua and to reduce commodity prices as transportation costs would remain high.
Beni Wetipo, 45, and Elianus Lokbere, 30, felt relieved because a 92-kilometer-long road had recently been constructed to connect Wamena, Mbua and Kenyam in Papua province.
Kompas reported on Aug. 22 that Mbua residents such as Beni and Elianus previously had to walk for five days to reach Wamena or pay Rp 600,000 (US$45.85) per person for a pioneer flight because of the lack of basic infrastructure, namely roads.
Unfortunately, the road may be the only new facility Papuans enjoy this year because the whole trans-Papua road program is now on the brink of a major overhaul as a result of state budget cuts, potentially leaving other Papuans without infrastructure for longer, unlike their fellow countrymen in the western regions.
The government has announced that it will cut spending by Rp 137 trillion this year and the Public Works and Public Housing Ministry is among the ministries that will suffer from the austerity measure.
The ministry, which is responsible for most infrastructure projects, will see as many as Rp 6.9 trillion removed from its budget, with almost half of the figure slashed from its Bina Marga Directorate General, which oversees road construction.
Of the cut within Bina Marga, 30 percent might be sourced from the total targeted development of a 4,325-km road project, which connects cities like Manokwari in West Papua province to Oksibil and Wamena in Papua.
“The road construction in West Papua might be the most affected by the move,” Bina Marga Director General Hediyanto Husaini said. Data from the ministry show that it is supposed to build 207.3 km of new roads in Papua and West Papua this year and continue with an additional 176.1 km in 2017.
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has actually pledged to bring more inclusive development to Papua during his visits to the resource-rich region, including the construction of a railway, but work on it is facing delays as well.
The Transportation Ministry has pushed back the trans-Papua railway’s introduction to 2017 from the original schedule of this year’s first half. Transportation Ministry Director General for railways Prasetyo Boeditjahjono attributed the delay to both budget and land acquisition problems as it would see Rp 1.7 trillion cut from its budget.
The railway is planned to span a 1,550-km-long route connecting Sorong in West Papua to Jayapura in Papua. The first phase to be built is the 390-km Sorong to Manokwari track, which is expected to be completed between 2020 and 2024.
However, according to data from the Transportation Ministry, no Papua-related development has been included in its 2017 railway transportation plan. Instead, the ministry plans to spend Rp 18 trillion next year through its directorate general for railways to build a double-track railway project in southern Java and develop both the trans-Sumatra and trans-Sulawesi railway projects.
Gadjah Mada University economist A. Tony Prasetiantono said the budget cuts would make it even more difficult to increase efficiency in Papua and to reduce commodity prices as transportation costs would remain high.
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4) Indonesian government to investigate Korean palm oil giant over burning in Papua
President Jokowi’s administration responds to an NGO report about the conglomerate’s operations in Indonesia’s easternmost province.
The Indonesian government is investigating a Korean palm oil giant accused of burning land in the archipelagic country’s easternmost province of Papua.
In response to an NGO report alleging that the company, Korindo, has made systematic use of fire to clear land in the heavily forested region, Indonesia’s environment ministry has sent a team to Papua to “to collect material and information,” the ministry’s law enforcement director Muhammad Yunus told Reuters.
The widespread use of fire by oil palm and pulpwood planters precipitates Indonesia’s annual haze crisis which each year sends smoke billowing across Southeast Asia. The result last year was a national health emergency and a disastrous spike in greenhouse gas emissions.
Indonesian president Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has urged local authorities to enforce the law against anyone caught burning, which is illegal for all except the smallest farmers. In late August Indonesia’s police chief said police had already arrested over 450 people, more than twice the number apprehended in connection with last year’s fires. The Jokowi administration has also brought civil and criminal cases against a number of companies accused of causing fires.
The NGO report, titled “Burning Paradise” and by environmental group Mighty and partners, used satellite images and hotspot data, as well as on-the-ground research, to document Korindo’s practices in its remote oil palm plantations in Papua.
The conglomerate has accepted that fires occurred on its land but denied the allegations of intentional burning. A company spokesman named Luwi implied that the fires were the fault of the government, not Korindo.
APL is not ‘forest area,’ so if you open land in APL, is that deforestation?Lewis, representative, KorindoLewis further suggested that Korindo’s clear-cutting the Papuan jungle might not constitute “deforestation” because the company’s land had been zoned for “other uses” — a designation known as APL — rather than as “forest area.” “I don’t know if we have the same understanding of deforestation” as the NGOs, he told journalists. “APL is not ‘forest area,’ so if you open land in APL, is that deforestation? This should be discussed.” Many of Indonesia’s forests lie outside the officially designated forest zone, just as many of its towns and cities, including the capital of Central Kalimantan province, lie inside it. According to “Burning Paradise,” Korindo is responsible for 30,000 hectares of deforestation and an estimated 894 fire hotspots since 2013. Last week on the day before the report’s publication, Korindo met with the chairperson of one of Indonesia’s two parliamentary chambers and with the heads of the associations representing Indonesian palm oil developers and logging concessionaires to discuss global “anti-palm-oil” campaigns, news portal Detik reported. Mighty campaign directors Bustar Maitar and Deborah Lapidus are this week touring universities, governments and media in South Korea to discuss Korindo’s actions.
This story was published with permission from Mongabay.com
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1) Regional Civil Society Applaud Leaders_ Commitment to Dialogue
2) Jokowi’s maritime highway to be rerouted
3) The good, the bad, and the ugly in palm oil (commentary)
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1) Regional Civil Society Applaud Leaders_ Commitment to Dialogue
The value of ongoing dialogue with civil society was recognized and reinforced by Forum Leaders when they met yesterday at the Regional Civil Society Breakfast in Pohnpei.
The breakfast meeting was led by Forum host and President of the Federated States of Micronesia, His Excellency Peter M. Christian. Also attending was Palau’s Minister of State Billy Kuartei, Papua New Guinea’s Foreign Minister Hon. Rimbink Pato, Samoan Prime Minister Hon. Tuilaepa Sailele and H.E Hilda Heine, President of the Republic of Marshall Islands.
Six representatives of Pacific Civil Society put forward their collective perspectives on current regional policy priorities. These included, climate change and disaster risk management, human rights violations in West Papua, regional disability development, labor mobility, and integrated sustainable management of our oceans, lagoons and marine resources.
Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, Dame Meg Taylor said, “Through the Framework for Pacific Regionalism, Forum leaders called for an inclusive approach to policy development. This means engaging across the Pacific to make sure we are informed by a diverse range of viewpoints. This dialogue with civil society, which began last year in Papua New Guinea, has grown into an important and valuable part of work of the Pacific Islands Forum.”
Reflecting on the breakfast, Civil society representative Finau Limuloa said “I feel a great sense of pride and accomplishment with today’s outcome. I am grateful to the Forum Secretariat for facilitating this process, that met with the Leaders. It was a privilege to stand before the Leaders and engage with them on behalf of Pacific civil society as equal partners. I could not have hoped for a more positive and welcoming response by our Leaders.”
Regional CSO Representative and Coordinator of Chuuk Youth Council, Mr Mori M Mori said “I was quite nervous and didn’t know what to expect, but I could see that the presentations captured the Leaders attention. All the effort and hard work has paid off.”
Sport was also raised as a potential game changer for the region and a powerful enabler of sustainable development. “It cuts across the social, economic and political development of Pacific Island countries’, said representative Mathew Vaea. “sport has undoubted health and social benefits for the Pacific. As we battle an NCD crisis I believe this could be a effective way to address it.”
CSOs called on Forum Leaders to endorse the Pacific Regional Framework on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (PFRPD) and called on development partners to work with the Forum Secretariat to support its implementation.
Mr Michael Din, used sign language to convey the disability positions to Leaders saying, “I believe our call has been received well by the Leaders today. I can see that everyone, especially the Forum Leaders, were in tune to our song and I thank them for their leadership at this time in our history. Their legacy will be a Pacific region where no one is left behind”.
The perspectives presented by civil society will be further discussed at the Forum Leaders retreat on Saturday 10 September in Pohnpei.
The civil society breakfast was supported by the Forum Secretariat’s Non State Actor Program funded by the European Union.
Inquiries can be directed to: media@forumsec.org
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2) Jokowi’s maritime highway to be rerouted
Farida Susanty | The Jakarta Post | Jakarta
Fri, September 9 2016 | 09:07 am
The maritime highway program — a flagship of President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo’s administration — will undergo a revision as the government seeks to increase efficiency and reduce competition with the private sector.
Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi said on Wednesday that it was mulling over scrapping several routes that were already being sailed by commercial shipping companies.
“The government’s and the private sector’s roles should be more balanced. Therefore, the maritime highway routes should be focused on non-commercial routes, while the commercial ones should be given to private operators or state enterprises,” he said.
At present, the government assigns state shipping firm Pelayaran Nasional Indonesia (Pelni) to operate freighters in six routes to carry staple goods, such as rice, sugar, flour, cooking oil, eggs, steel and cement. The delivery of those goods is expected to push down prices that soar in remote areas, especially in the eastern part of the country.
The six routes connect major ports, such as Tanjung Perak in East Java and Tanjung Priok in North Jakarta, with remote areas, such as Tual in Maluku.
In one route, for instance, a freighter will sail from Tanjung Priok to Biak in Papua, with stops in Makassar, South Sulawesi; Manokwari and Wasior in West Papua; and Nabire and Serui in Papua. The return trip takes around 4,644 nautical miles in total.
Budi said the Jakarta-South Sulawesi-Papua route would potentially be changed to South Sulawesi-Papua as a commercial freighter was already traveling from Jakarta to South Sulawesi.
“There is a large port there [in Makassar, South Sulawesi] and the price of rice is also similar to the price in Java — why do we have to travel there?” he said. The revision might also include the Jakarta-Riau Islands route that may be altered to Riau Islands-West Kalimantan.
Budi said he had notified Pelni of the revision plan and added that the ministry was preparing to put on tender as many as three additional routes for private shipping companies in the next two weeks. Operations for the three new routes are scheduled for next year.
The ministry expects the overall revision to help reduce costs as it will no longer subsidize several routes. It has allocated Rp 257.9 billion (US$19.7 million) in public service obligations (PSO) this year to subsidize trips in the six routes, an increase from Rp 30 billion in 2015, as the program only commenced late last year.
At the same time, the ministry hopes to see higher trip frequencies and shorter duration in several routes following the change. A freighter could travel from Riau Islands to West Kalimantan once every 10 days, instead of once every 21 days as it does now.
The government previously claimed that the program has helped slash prices in remote areas by 20 to 30 percent. The end goal is also to cut down on the overall logistics costs plaguing the business climate.
Indonesian logistics costs account for 24.6 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), among the highest in the Southeast Asian region, according to data from the World Bank.
However, despite the claim of lower prices, the government still has to solve the occasional problem of the low load factor or empty freighters returning to major ports when they should ideally transport goods from the eastern region as well.
Separately, Indonesian National Shipowners Association (INSA) chairperson Carmelita Hartoto said the planned route revision would create healthier competition between the private sector and the government.
The association also proposes several routes for the revision, including ones that connect East Java-Maluku-Papua and East Java-East Nusa Tenggara, as private firms already sail those routes.
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3) The good, the bad, and the ugly in palm oil (commentary)
9 September 2016 / Commentary by Erik Meijaard / Douglas Sheil / David Gaveau
Erik Meijaard of Borneo Futures, Douglas Sheil of the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, of David Gaveau of the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) are the authors of a paper published today in Scientific Reports. The views expressed are their own.
A new study quantifies the impact of palm oil on forest cover in Borneo.
The results indicate that the plantation industry was the principle driver of the loss of old-growth forest in Malaysian Borneo.
The good news, at least for Indonesia, is that considerably more oil palm has been developed on land that had been cleared many years previously.
This post is a commentary -- the views expressed are those of the authors.
Among the World’s most controversial industries, palm oil production is once again in the headlines. The polarized rhetoric and contradictory claims – concerning who really did what and where – shows the need for objective information concerning what really is going on. A new publication provides just that and moves us towards objectively judging the impacts of palm oil. And to say that such information “is urgently needed” is an understatement.
In August 2016, at the International Peat Congress in Kuching, a keynote speaker from the Sarawak Oil Palm Plantation Owners Association, started with a frontal attack on NGOs. “Today, the oil palm industry in Sarawak bears witness to the success story of the planting of oil palm on peatland. But the journey ahead continues to face challenges from unfounded attacks and criticism from NGOs who demonize the palm oil industry in the face of the stiff competition it poses to the seed oil industry of Europe.” The speaker then continued to compare the criticism of the palm oil industry as “reminiscent of genocide acts waged by the Dutch East India Company against inhabitants of the Maluku Islands to exert a monopoly over the spice trade in the region”, and that “the tactics employed by present-day NGOs to demonize palm oil are no different in their hideousness and patronizing attitude.”
We are not going to argue about the ethics of the Dutch East India Company, or whether its approach to creating wealth for its investors is more like that of the palm oil industry or that of its critics. But it is obvious that there are sharply conflicting views dividing those concerned about oil palm. Reconciliation seems a distant option. It requires open, fair and transparent dialogue between the opponents and proponents of palm oil.
That dialogue won’t be smoothed over either by recent revelations of apparent illegal land clearing and burning practices by the South Korean Korindo group in Papua and Halmahera and by oil palm plantation company Andika Permata Sawit Lestari (APSL). At a time when the Indonesian government talks about extending the existing moratorium on new palm oil licenses, there is evidence that the Korindo group cleared more than 50,000 hectares of tropical lowland forests and that APSL burned 2,000 ha of land on State Forest land where agricultural developments are illegal according to national law.
Although oil palm companies cannot legally operate outside their concessions, up to 30 percent of the total land area developed by companies do not possess formal concession titles, a recent study has found. These are ugly stories indicating how companies ignore environmental regulations.
It is obvious that the palm oil industry remains as divisive as ever. Proponents, such as the companies in the industry, the governments of Indonesia and Malaysia and many other tropical countries, and many rural communities embrace large-scale palm oil developments for the socio-economic benefits it can bring. Opponents hate the industry for its environmental and social impacts.
The new study brings objective data to the table and helps inform both the proponents and opponents of the industry. It indicates, perhaps unsurprisingly, that the truth lies between their claims. The scientists found that 76 percent of Borneo, the third largest island in the world, was old-growth forest in 1973. In 2015, 50 percent of the island remained forested, and 12 percent of Borneo was covered in industrial plantations, both for the production of palm oil and pulp and paper.
The study found contrasting patterns between Indonesia and Malaysia’s conversion process, i.e. the amount of time between deforestation and plantation development. In Malaysian Borneo, the plantation industry was the principle driver of the loss of old-growth forest, as 57–60 percent of all deforestation over four decades was associated with rapid conversion (within five years of forest clearance) to industrial plantations.
In Kalimantan, on the other hand, only 15–16 percent of all deforestation was associated with rapid conversion to industrial plantations (11–13 percent attributed to oil-palm) as the majority of oil-palm plantations were developed on lands cleared before 1973 and on degraded lands (predominantly forests converted to scrublands by drought and recurrent burning). This shows that the majority of oil palm plantations in Kalimantan were developed on degraded lands, meaning forests converted to ferns, grasslands and scrubs by drought and recurrent burning, mainly during El Niño years.
The expanding area (9.1 Mha) of industrial plantations (oil-palm and pulpwood) in six time periods from 1973 to 2015 with vegetation cover of the land just before observed conversion to plantations in Borneo (A), Indonesian Borneo (B), and Malaysian Borneo (C). Intact Forest: pristine old-growth forests. Logged Forest: old-growth forests that have lost their original structure and canopy cover through industrial-scale selective timber harvest at some point since 1973, indicated principally by the construction of logging roads. Scrub: old-growth forests impacted by drought and fire; these burn/drought scars tend to recover slowly. They are vulnerable to further burning and conversion to short vegetation follows; hence they appear as “deforested” in satellite assessments (see also methods). Non Forest since 1973: areas that have been cleared before 1973. Other Non-Forest: areas that have been cleared after 1973, but not converted to scrubs. We recognize that Non Forest since 1973 and Other Non-Forest may include secondary forests: young-growth, forest fallow or agro-forest.
Importantly, however, the study found that Kalimantan has experienced a steep increase in rapid within-five-year conversion since 2005, in line with the global oil palm boom. In Kalimantan, oil palm became the principle contributor of rapid net forest conversion by area (1.2 Mha). And this rapid deforestation continued after 2010 when Indonesia announced a moratorium against further forest clearing for oil palm development. It seems obvious that in Kalimantan at least, the oil palm moratorium is not achieving its objectives.
The good news, at least for Indonesia, is that considerably more oil palm has been developed on land that had been cleared many years previously, than recognized by most opponents of the industry. This is what the conservation community has promoted for decades. Development on degraded lands is a cornerstone of sustainable palm oil development, compatible with certification schemes and recent zero-deforestation pledges. Seen from that perspective, Indonesia seems to have done much better than has been widely assumed – though since 2005 the sharp increase in rapid conversion gives little room for complacency. Despite planting on degraded lands, deforestation remains very high and does not appear to be slowing. We need to do much more to protect Borneo’s forests.
As with many things that are often seen in black and white, there is a significant grey area with lighter and darker hues that few pay attention to or are willing to factor into their rhetoric. But the truth is that oil palm is not always a bad thing. It generates a sizable amount of revenue for people and is very efficient in generating incomes from limited land. Stigmatizing an entire crop is not useful. It’s not the crop that is the problem but where and how we grow it.
The new study is a major step forward in distinguishing between the good, the bad, and the ugly in the palm oil and other plantation industries. It can help the Indonesian government in its goal towards more sustainable management. It can also help those companies with good social and environmental management to different themselves from their less scrupulous competitors.
Article published by Rhett Butler (User) on 2016-09-09.
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2016 Regional Civil Society Organization Forum Position Papers on Regional Policy initiatives
Disclaimer: Please note that these papers present the views of the civil society representatives that participated in the Regional Civil Society Organisation Forum and do not necessarily represent the views of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.
2016 Regional Civil Society Organization Forum Position Papers on Regional Policy initiatives
Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia
HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN WEST PAPUA
Concern about Human Rights violations
Decades of conflict and ongoing human rights violations in West Papua by Indonesian military – termed “the neglected genocide’ by the International Coalition for Papua (ICP)1 poses a threat to regional security, undermines regional cooperation and casts doubt to the realisation of the Leaders vision and attainment of the regional norm for observance of human rights. The 2015 ICP report shows deterioration in the human rights situation in West Papua.
The United liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) in 20152 stated that West Papua is on the brink of destruction. Conflicts and violence continue to escalate. For the 7years 2008-2015, ULMWP gathered data showing how Papuans are abused, tortured, raped, attacked, arrested, incarcerated even murdered.
The most recent report on Human Rights Fact Finding Mission to West Papua by the Catholic Justice and Peace Commission in May 2016 titled “We will lose everything” 3, spells out that the situation in West Papua is fast approaching a tipping point. . In less than five years, the position of Papuans in their own land will be worse than precarious.
Indonesia continues to deny these human rights violations but has refused to allow the PIF Fact Finding Mission. Pacific UN member States must now call for UN intervention. The call upon the UN to appoint a UN Special Representative to investigate human rights abuses in West Papua was made by the then Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Hon. Moana Carcasess Kalosil, at the UNGA in September 2013.4 This special mechanism is available under UN Human Rights Mechanisms.
Multi-national companies that operate in West Papua are important stakeholders to be brought into the picture, be engaged in dialogue. Corporations have significant social responsibilities for which they must be held accountable for by the global community. Unfair exploitation of natural resources that should rightly be under the stewardship of indigenous people’s is no longer acceptable and the CSO community urges governments and industries to work together to find solutions that work for all the communities
involved.
1 http://www.humanrightspapua.org/images/docs/NeglectedGenocideAHRC-ICP2013lowres.pdf 2 Haluk, M, Papuans on the brink of extinction, ULMWP, 2015.3 https://cjpcbrisbane.files.wordpress.com/2016/05/we-will-lose-everything-may-2016.pdf4 http://gadebate.un.org/sites/default/files/gastatements/68/VU_en.pdf
Disclaimer: Please note that these papers present the views of the civil society representatives that participated in the Regional Civil Society Organisation Forum and do not necessarily represent the views of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.
2016 Regional Civil Society Organization Forum Position Papers on Regional Policy initiatives
Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia
Call to Pacific Forum Leaders for Action
- Recalling that Leaders have in several previous Communiqués’, expressed deep concern on ongoing violence and loss of life in West Papua5. In 2006, Leaders expressed deep concern about ongoing violence and loss of life in West Papua, calling on all parties to protect and uphold the human rights of the people of West Papua and to support peaceful dialogue and consultation between the different groups involved in the struggle for a free West Papua.
- At their 46th PIF meeting in September 2015, Leaders recalled their 2006 decision concerning reports of violence in Papua and requested the Indonesian Government for a fact finding mission to Papua. Indonesia, a Post Forum dialogue Partner, has refuted claims of human rights violations and challenges PIF that this issue and their concern is outside its mandate.
- Taking into account articles 3 and 4 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights to Indigenous Peoples6, regarding the right to self-determination and UNGA Resolution 61/295 of 13 September 2007 stipulating that Indigenous peoples have the right to self-determination. By virtue of that right they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development.
- Recalling the Charter of the United Nations, its resolution 1514 (XV) of 14 December 1960 containing the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples and its resolution 1541 (XV) of 15 December 1960.
- Noting the Third International decade for the eradication of Decolonisation is 2011-2020,
- Noting the ambition of Agenda 2030 is to leave no one behind;
Pacific Civil Society Urge Leaders to:
- a) Actively engage with the Indonesian Government to halt the deteriorating human rights violations and
- b) Discuss with the UN Secretary-General at their annual meeting (Forum Update in New York on the margins of UNGA) to appoint a special envoy to conduct human rights assessment in West Papua.
- c) Sponsor the re-instatement of West Papua on the United Nations Committee for Decolonisation and enquire into past actions for its removal.
5 http://www.forumsec.org/resources/uploads/attachments/documents/2000%20Communique- Tarawa%2027-30%20Oct.pdf
6 UNGA Resolution 61/295
Disclaimer: Please note that these papers present the views of the civil society representatives that participated in the Regional Civil Society Organisation Forum and do not necessarily represent the views of the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat.
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1) ’Small and Far’: Pacific Island States Gather at Annual Forum
1) ’Small and Far’: Pacific Island States Gather at Annual Forum
The 16 states are meeting this week to discuss regional challenges, particularly climate change.
By Grant Wyeth September 09, 2016
The 47th Pacific Islands Forum leaders’ meeting began this week on the island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. The meeting will bring together the leaders of 16 Pacific Island states to provide a platform discuss the prominent economic, development, and security issues of the region, and seek solutions to the region’s mutual problems.
The forum describes its mission as: “to work in support of forum member governments, to enhance the economic and social well-being of the people of the South Pacific by fostering cooperation between governments and between international agencies, and by representing the interests of forum members in ways agreed by the forum.” It has met annually since 1971, when the forum was founded as the South Pacific Forum.
Sixteen states in the South Pacific are members of the Pacific Islands Forum: Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
Reflecting the predominant geographic nature of the forum’s members, the theme for this year’s summit is: “Small and Far: Challenges for Growth.” While each of the members have small land masses and populations (Australia aside), their combined sovereignty covers an area of 8,538,293 sq km (3,296,653 sq mi), making their agreement over maritime concerns important not only for members of the forum, but also for states outside the forum with interests in the South Pacific.
This geographic reality is usually reflected in the priority of regional fisheries and shipping lanes on the forum’s agenda. However, in recent years the impact of climate change has begun to dominate discussions within the forum.
The smaller states within the South Pacific have become a leading voice on the global stage on the issue of climate change and its potential effects on human security, as well as the environment. Pacific Island nations take climate change extremely seriously, with some forecasts predicting a potential loss of territory due to rising sea levels. For Tuvalu, a country whose highest point is only 4 meters above sea level, rising sea levels are very real threat to its existence.
This puts them at great odds with the region’s main power. Low-lying Pacific Islands deem Australia’s continued reliance on coal, as both a source of energy and a major export, a menace. Australia remains the third largest producer of coal in the world (behind China and the United States), and the world’s largest exporter of the fossil fuel, with no intention of shifting these positions.
The most prominent external issue for the forum will remain its interest in the Indonesian province of West Papua. In June this year the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu informed the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva that they were very concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation in West Papua. While representatives from West Papua have no involvement in the forum, many of the Melanesian states like the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea maintain a strong ethnic solidarity with the Indonesian province, and pay special attention to developments there.
At last year’s Forum in Port Moresby a decision was reached to organize a fact finding mission to West Papua. However, Jakarta indicated it would not welcome any delegation, and had problems with the use of the term “fact-finding.” However, West Papuan leaders in exile remain hopeful that a push for similar pressure on Indonesia will develop from this year’s forum. However, with Australia keen to maintain friendly relations with Indonesia, it is doubtful Canberra will add too much of its weight to these concerns.
The other major concern for the forum will be the continued negotiations of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (known as PACER Plus). There is a developing consensus among the smaller Pacific Islands states that this agreement would not promote further economic development. Given that these island states already have tariff-free and duty-free access to the Australian and New Zealand markets the PACER Plus agreement would do little to enhance this reality.
Fiji’s Prime Minister, Frank Bainimarama, has stated there “aren’t enough pluses” for Fiji to warrant signing the agreement, and the PNG Trade Minister has flatly stated he is “not interested” in it. Of greater importance to the Pacific Island states is freer labor mobility for unskilled and semi-skilled workers within the Australian and New Zealand markets. This is seen as having a far more direct positive economic impact for these countries.
The forum will conclude on Sunday September 11 with its traditional communiqué of conclusions reached to be published shortly after.
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Latin American Herald Tribune
2) Pacific Islands Forum to Focus on Climate Change and West Papua
SYDNEY, Australia - Climate change and the situation in Indonesia's West Papua province will dominate the agenda of the 47th leaders' summit of the Pacific Islands Forum, being held in Pohnpei in Micronesia on Friday.
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced a $229 million aid to help the Pacific islands combat climate change and improve disaster resistance capabilities, according to news portal news.com.au.
Australia, the forum's most powerful country, was recently criticized by nonprofit Oxfam for not allocating enough aid towards efforts to fight climate change in the South Pacific (which have been suffering the effects of climate change and extreme weather phenomenon) since 2010.
New Zealand, another country in the forum, has also been criticized for a 20 percent cut in its contribution since 2013, according to Pacific Islands News Association.
Oxfam's Executive Director in New Zealand, Rachael Le Mesurier, said the country's funding model for the fight against climate change is very business-oriented and does not benefit families, who are bearing the brunt of the phenomenon and who needs more resources to adapt to the rise in sea levels - which contaminates their water sources and snatches their cultivable lands - as well as powerful cyclones hitting the region.
The summit will also discuss issues related to West Papua, a Christian-majority Indonesian region, and home to a separatist conflict.
Radio New Zealand reported the forum plans to renew its call to Indonesia to allow international observers in the region, a proposal Jakarta had turned down last year.
It said the forum is also expected to consider West Papua's request to be accepted as a member, besides encouraging its inclusion into the United Nations Decolonization Committee, or C24.
Meanwhile, Fiji Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama, whose country was readmitted into the forum following elections, has declined to attend the forum in protest over the presence of Australia and New Zealand.
Other countries at the forum include the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
SYDNEY, Australia - Climate change and the situation in Indonesia's West Papua province will dominate the agenda of the 47th leaders' summit of the Pacific Islands Forum, being held in Pohnpei in Micronesia on Friday.
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced a $229 million aid to help the Pacific islands combat climate change and improve disaster resistance capabilities, according to news portal news.com.au.
Australia, the forum's most powerful country, was recently criticized by nonprofit Oxfam for not allocating enough aid towards efforts to fight climate change in the South Pacific (which have been suffering the effects of climate change and extreme weather phenomenon) since 2010.
New Zealand, another country in the forum, has also been criticized for a 20 percent cut in its contribution since 2013, according to Pacific Islands News Association.
Oxfam's Executive Director in New Zealand, Rachael Le Mesurier, said the country's funding model for the fight against climate change is very business-oriented and does not benefit families, who are bearing the brunt of the phenomenon and who needs more resources to adapt to the rise in sea levels - which contaminates their water sources and snatches their cultivable lands - as well as powerful cyclones hitting the region.
The summit will also discuss issues related to West Papua, a Christian-majority Indonesian region, and home to a separatist conflict.
Radio New Zealand reported the forum plans to renew its call to Indonesia to allow international observers in the region, a proposal Jakarta had turned down last year.
It said the forum is also expected to consider West Papua's request to be accepted as a member, besides encouraging its inclusion into the United Nations Decolonization Committee, or C24.
Meanwhile, Fiji Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama, whose country was readmitted into the forum following elections, has declined to attend the forum in protest over the presence of Australia and New Zealand.
Other countries at the forum include the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
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3) Palm oil producer caught flouting codes of conduct
By Marine Jobert | Le Journal de l’Environnement
8 September 2016 at 8:58:13 PM AEST (updated: 8 September 2016 at 9:57:47 PM AEST)
A coalition of NGOs documenting deforestation in Indonesia has cast doubt on the effectiveness of the code of conduct used by the palm oil industry. EurActiv’s partner Journal de l’Environnement reports.
It is the fire season in Indonesia: voluntary forest fires, lit by companies to clear tropical forest to make way for plantations of oil palms as far as the eye can see.
The NGO coalition Mighty has accused Korindo, a Korean conglomerate with large interests in the wood industry and wind turbine construction, of being behind massive deforestation operations in Insodesia. The NGOs used footage from cameras mounted on drones, satellite photos and videos taken in the provinces of Papua and North Maluku to draw attention to the destruction of 50,000 hectares of virgin forest, home to birds of paradise, tree-kangaroos and thousands of other species.
Code of conduct
Forest fires are prohibited under Indonesian rules, which have failed to discourage Korindo. But the NGOs hope an economic argument will prove more effective. Since the first revelations in early August, two major buyers of palm oil, Wilmar and Musim Mas, have suspended their orders from Korindo over the non-respect of the “No Deforestation, No Peat and No Exploitation” code of conduct, adopted by the big palm oil producers several years ago.
The true face of the industry
“This investigation shows the true face of the palm oil industry in Indonesia even after No Deforestation policies,” Glenn Hurowitz, the US campaign director for Mighty, told the Guardian.
“The current, mostly confidential company-by-company system is inadequate. We urgently need a transparent, systematic approach, as well as further action by government and prosecutors,” he added.
Indonesian sovereignty
The Indonesian government has announced that it will send investigators to the affected areas. In June, Singapore threatened its big neighbour with legal action over the toxic fumes it is forced to endure from illegal forest fires every year. But for Indonesia, this is an issue of sovereignty that it hopes to solve without outside interference.
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4) Plantations get military, police backup
Jakarta | Fri, September 9 2016 | 07:41 am
Hans Nicholas Jong The Jakarta Post
The involvement of police and military personnel in protecting plantations has come under scrutiny as their role may have become a stumbling block in efforts to curb forest fires.
Not only have security force personnel often been reported to side with companies in land disputes against residents, but the police have also recently terminated investigations into last year’s fires in Riau.
The Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi) has called on President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo to evaluate the National Police and the Indonesian Military (TNI) conduct in relation to their support for private businesses, especially those that have violated environmental regulations.
“Corporations always use the state apparatus to ease their business, protect their concessions and evict people. We see this everywhere and we believe the situation is getting worse,” Walhi chairwoman Nur “Yaya” Hidayati told The Jakarta Post.
According to her, corporations are becoming more aggressive in resisting law enforcement and investigations into alleged illegal practices because they are backed up by the police and the military.
“We can see corporate power getting stronger. For instance, there have already been two cases of investigators from the Environment and Forestry Ministry being blocked by companies [in the course of investigations],” Yaya said.
The first case happened last year, when members of Walhi’s South Sumatra branch along with ministry staff investigated a dispute between local rubber planters and a timber plantation at Bumi Makmur village in Musirawas Regency.
As they reached the location, they saw company staff accompanied by police officers evicting people from their rubber plantations, said Walhi member Hadi Jatmiko.
When the team of investigators asked for the eviction to be halted and invited the company for discussions, company staff and the police abused the team, describing them as agents provocateurs and arrested the four members of the team, who were later beaten, according to Hadi.
Musirawas Police chief Sr. Comr. Nurhadi Handayani admitted that police had secured the location, by request of the plantation company, but denied anyone was beaten.
According to a report from the Agrarian Reform Consortium (KPA), the police and the military have long been involved in agrarian conflicts, often siding with businesses. In 2015, there were 35 cases of companies committing violence, 21 cases involving the police, 16 involving the military, 10 involving other government institutions, eight cases in which gangs were involved and three cases in which local communities were responsible.
In 2014, police were responsible for most violent agrarian conflicts with 34 cases, followed by local communities with 19, companies with 12, six cases involving gangs and military involvement in five cases.
Nur described this data as ironic given that the police and the military are supposed to protect and defend the people.
TNI spokesman Maj. Gen. Tatang Sulaiman said the military did not allow active military personnel to work for private companies as the monitoring or protection of plantations was not the duty of the military. “There are many who work for palm oil companies as well as oil and gas companies. But they’re no longer active in the military. They resigned from the military because maybe they no longer saw a future in the career,” he told the Post.
The forestry ministry’s law enforcement director-general, Rasio Ridho Sani, also denied the involvement of police officers or TNI officials in backing up palm oil companies involved in illegally clearing land. “In the case involving PT APSL [Andika Permata Sawit Lestari], the police worked really well. When we were held hostage, the police protected us and helped us to get away from the area,” he said.
Rasio was referring to a hostage incident last week, when seven ministry officials were held hostage and threatened with death by a group of people while investigating a forest fire in Riau. (win)
Not only have security force personnel often been reported to side with companies in land disputes against residents, but the police have also recently terminated investigations into last year’s fires in Riau.
The Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi) has called on President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo to evaluate the National Police and the Indonesian Military (TNI) conduct in relation to their support for private businesses, especially those that have violated environmental regulations.
“Corporations always use the state apparatus to ease their business, protect their concessions and evict people. We see this everywhere and we believe the situation is getting worse,” Walhi chairwoman Nur “Yaya” Hidayati told The Jakarta Post.
According to her, corporations are becoming more aggressive in resisting law enforcement and investigations into alleged illegal practices because they are backed up by the police and the military.
“We can see corporate power getting stronger. For instance, there have already been two cases of investigators from the Environment and Forestry Ministry being blocked by companies [in the course of investigations],” Yaya said.
The first case happened last year, when members of Walhi’s South Sumatra branch along with ministry staff investigated a dispute between local rubber planters and a timber plantation at Bumi Makmur village in Musirawas Regency.
As they reached the location, they saw company staff accompanied by police officers evicting people from their rubber plantations, said Walhi member Hadi Jatmiko.
When the team of investigators asked for the eviction to be halted and invited the company for discussions, company staff and the police abused the team, describing them as agents provocateurs and arrested the four members of the team, who were later beaten, according to Hadi.
Musirawas Police chief Sr. Comr. Nurhadi Handayani admitted that police had secured the location, by request of the plantation company, but denied anyone was beaten.
According to a report from the Agrarian Reform Consortium (KPA), the police and the military have long been involved in agrarian conflicts, often siding with businesses. In 2015, there were 35 cases of companies committing violence, 21 cases involving the police, 16 involving the military, 10 involving other government institutions, eight cases in which gangs were involved and three cases in which local communities were responsible.
In 2014, police were responsible for most violent agrarian conflicts with 34 cases, followed by local communities with 19, companies with 12, six cases involving gangs and military involvement in five cases.
Nur described this data as ironic given that the police and the military are supposed to protect and defend the people.
TNI spokesman Maj. Gen. Tatang Sulaiman said the military did not allow active military personnel to work for private companies as the monitoring or protection of plantations was not the duty of the military. “There are many who work for palm oil companies as well as oil and gas companies. But they’re no longer active in the military. They resigned from the military because maybe they no longer saw a future in the career,” he told the Post.
The forestry ministry’s law enforcement director-general, Rasio Ridho Sani, also denied the involvement of police officers or TNI officials in backing up palm oil companies involved in illegally clearing land. “In the case involving PT APSL [Andika Permata Sawit Lestari], the police worked really well. When we were held hostage, the police protected us and helped us to get away from the area,” he said.
Rasio was referring to a hostage incident last week, when seven ministry officials were held hostage and threatened with death by a group of people while investigating a forest fire in Riau. (win)
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5) Bainamarama boycotting Pacific Islands Forum in protest of NZ’s domination
Michael Sergel and Frances Cook, Section Politics, Publish Date Saturday, 10 September 2016, 7:45AM
The deep freeze between New Zealand and Fiji could soon begin to thaw, thanks to a rugby match.
Fijian leader Frank Bainamarama is boycotting the Pacific Islands Forum currently underway in Micronesia, in protest at what he says is New Zealand’s attempt to dominate the proceedings.
Prime Minister John Key said they expected that, but are still inviting Bainamarama to visit New Zealand later this year, in what would be his first visit since the coup.
"When I went over there I invited them to come back. There's an All Black test match later in the year that may be of interest to him. So it's possible he'll be back then but obviously subject to his diary and final confirmation."
Meanwhile, French Polynesia and New Caledonia are pushing for a stronger voice in the Pacific.
The Pacific Islands Forum is getting underway in Micronesia today, with our Prime Minister and Foreign Minister joining talks at the Leaders’ Retreat.
Foreign Minister Murray McCully said French Polynesia and New Caledonia both want to become full members of the forum.
"That's something that was high on the agenda of the Foreign Minister's meeting recently in Suva and something the leaders will consider at the retreat."
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6) Papuan Women Support of Liquor Restrictions
7 September 2016
Biak, Jubi – Hundreds of women in Biak Numfor, Papua, urged the local authorities to endorse the regional regulation restricting the sale of alcoholic beverages.
A woman activist from Yayasan Beatrix Biak, Agustina Klorway, said in Biak on Monday (5/9/2016) the protest was to support the policy of the Regent Thomas Ondy who officially banned the circulation of liquor since 1 August 2015.
“We hope the local parliament could immediately ratify the regional regulation on the restriction of liquors as a legal basis in the monitoring on the ground,” she said. The demand was also backed by community groups and the Christian women fellowship of GKI Biak Selatan
She said alcohol had given rise to domestic violence, assaults, immoral acts leading to other crimes.
The support of women towards the regulation, according to her, will be expressed through a peaceful demonstration on Monday, 5 September 2016 in the local parliament office and Biak Regent Office.
Earlier, the Regent Thomas Ondy already revoked the License for Sale for 58 stalls, shops and cafés and retailers of liquors.
“Biak Numfor Government also froze the operational licenses of three liquor distributors in Biak Numfor region,” he said.
However, up to Monday, the activity of liquors selling in many stalls and shops are still running in secret although the license has been revoked as instructed by the regent. (*/rom)
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7) CONTRAS Urges Papua Police to Speed Up Probe into Simon Warikar’s Case
6 September 2016
Biak, Jubi – The human rights group Kontras has urged Papua Police Chief Inspector General Paulus Waterpauw to complete the investigation into the death of civilian Simoan Warikar allegedly at the hands of two police officers.
Director LBH Kyadiwun Biak, Imanuel Rumayom, SH in Biak on Monday (5/9/2016) revealed a letter signed by Kontras Coordinator Haris Azhar with a copy to law enforcement agencies and Biak Police Chief, is expected to accelerate the completion of the case.
“The completion of the case in accordance to the criminal law upon the judicial court for the police officers who perpetrated the violence is the expectation of the victim’s family,” Rumayom said.
He admitted the response of Biak Police Chief Hadi Wahyudi towards the handling of this case of alleged mistreatment is good so far. The perpetrators also have been detained for 21 days. “As victim’s attorney, I oversee the legal process to be run in accordance with the law. My client charged the perpetrators to be taken to the public trial for their misconduct,” said Rumayom.
Simon Warikar, according to him, is now under treatment after the surgery at Biak Public Hospital a few days ago. (*/rom)
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Photos-Rally at Sydney’s Long Bay Prison to protest David Dungay’s death in custody.
Photos-Rally at Sydney’s Long Bay Prison to protest David Dungay’s death in custody.
10 Sept. 2016
Aboriginal death in custody: Inmate died in Sydney prison after being ‘restrained and sedated’
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-09-08/report-shows-indigenous-inmate-died-after-being-restrained/7827450
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47th PIF Communique Pohnpei, -Federated States of Micronesia 8 – 10 September, 2016
47th PIF Communique
Note. First time non-self governing territories have been granted full membership, French Polynesia and New Caledonia
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In relation to West PapuaWEST PAPUA (PAPUA)
18. Leaders recognised the political sensitivities of the issue of West Papua (Papua) and agreed the issue of alleged human rights violations in West Papua (Papua) should remain on their agenda. Leaders also agreed on the importance of an open and constructive dialogue with Indonesia on the issue.
French Polynesia and New Caledonia
MEMBERSHIP
30. Leaders accepted French Polynesia and New Caledonia as full Members of the Pacific Islands Forum.
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full Communique
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FORTY-SEVENTH PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM
POHNPEI, FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA
8 – 10 September, 2016
FORUM COMMUNIQUÉ
PIFS(16)9
PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM SECRETARIAT
FORTY-SEVENTH PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM
Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia 8 – 10 September, 2016
FORUM COMMUNIQUÉ
Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia 8 – 10 September, 2016
FORUM COMMUNIQUÉ
The Forty-Seventh Pacific Islands Forum was held in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia from 8 – 10 September 2016 and was attended by Heads of State and Government of Australia, the Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. The Solomon Islands was represented by their Deputy Prime Minister, the Republic of Fiji, Niue and the Republic of Palau by their Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Kiribati by a Special Envoy. The Forum Leaders’ Retreat was held at FSM Congress Chamber in Palikir on 10 September 2016.
2. French Polynesia, New Caledonia and Tokelau attended the formal session as Associate Members. The Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, Timor-Leste, Wallis and Futuna, the Asian Development Bank, the Commonwealth Secretariat, the United Nations (UN), the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission and the World Bank attended as Observers. The Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP): the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (PIFFA); the Pacific Power Association (PPA); the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC); the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP); and the University of the South Pacific (USP) were represented by their respective Heads of Organisations.
3. Leaders extended their warmest gratitude to His Excellency, President Peter M. Christian, and the Government and the people of the Federated States of Micronesia for the excellent arrangements for the 2016 Forum Leaders’ meeting and warmly thanked the hosts for their generous hospitality extended to them during their stay in Pohnpei.
Priorities Identified by the Specialist Sub-Committee on Regionalism
4. Leaders noted that in 2016, the Specialist Sub-Committee on Regionalism (SSCR) had identified persons with disabilities, oceans, and regional mobility and harmonisation of business practices as having met the tests for regionalism specified in
2. French Polynesia, New Caledonia and Tokelau attended the formal session as Associate Members. The Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, Timor-Leste, Wallis and Futuna, the Asian Development Bank, the Commonwealth Secretariat, the United Nations (UN), the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission and the World Bank attended as Observers. The Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP): the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (PIFFA); the Pacific Power Association (PPA); the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC); the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP); and the University of the South Pacific (USP) were represented by their respective Heads of Organisations.
3. Leaders extended their warmest gratitude to His Excellency, President Peter M. Christian, and the Government and the people of the Federated States of Micronesia for the excellent arrangements for the 2016 Forum Leaders’ meeting and warmly thanked the hosts for their generous hospitality extended to them during their stay in Pohnpei.
Priorities Identified by the Specialist Sub-Committee on Regionalism
4. Leaders noted that in 2016, the Specialist Sub-Committee on Regionalism (SSCR) had identified persons with disabilities, oceans, and regional mobility and harmonisation of business practices as having met the tests for regionalism specified in
PIFS(16)9
the Framework for Pacific Regionalism (Framework) and warranted Leaders’ consideration. Leaders commended the progress made in the implementation of the five priorities endorsed in 2015, which had been identified and proposed by the (SSCR through the public submissions process under the Framework - greater economic returns on fisheries and strengthening of maritime surveillance and enforcement; climate change; Information Communication Technologies (ICT); cervical cancer; and West Papua (Papua). Leaders also highly commended the national and regional interagency coordination and cooperation in implementing the priorities, including with international organisations.
FISHERIES
5. Leaders were pleased with the positive collaborative work that has been undertaken by the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), the Forum Secretariat, the Parties to the Nauru Agreement Office (PNAO), and the SPC, as the Fisheries Task Force, in implementing their decision on increasing economic returns and ensuring the sustainable management of fisheries. Leaders acknowledged the good work of the PNA in achieving significant increased economic returns.
6. Leaders endorsed the Fisheries Taskforce’s Economic Returns Work Programme and Report, and noted that the four areas of work under the Programme: reform of the management of longline fishery; increasing the value of employment and ensuring effective labour standards are in place; facilitating investment and trade; and value chain participation, are consistent with, and expedite implementation of, several of the Goals and Strategies in the Fisheries Roadmap. Leaders concurred with the view of the Task Force that there is no need to change the management of the purse seine Vessel Day Scheme in the foreseeable future. At the same time, Leaders welcomed the PNAO’s openness to considering such a change, should it be appropriate at some future time. Leaders acknowledged the importance of ensuring more onshore investment opportunities.
7. Leaders also endorsed the review of the regional Monitoring Control and Surveillance (MCS) arrangements, and concurred that the combination of MCS tools, programmes, assets and activities at the national and regional level represent a world class MCS Framework that has achieved positive results for FFA members. Leaders noted that there were further improvements that would substantially enhance the MCS at the national and regional level, and which the FFA would pursue.
8. Leaders called for action to ending Illegal Unregulated Unreported fishing and associated activities, including high seas bunkering, human trafficking, and illicit trade. Leaders encouraged FFA to ensure the rapid implementation of the Tokelau
FISHERIES
5. Leaders were pleased with the positive collaborative work that has been undertaken by the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), the Forum Secretariat, the Parties to the Nauru Agreement Office (PNAO), and the SPC, as the Fisheries Task Force, in implementing their decision on increasing economic returns and ensuring the sustainable management of fisheries. Leaders acknowledged the good work of the PNA in achieving significant increased economic returns.
6. Leaders endorsed the Fisheries Taskforce’s Economic Returns Work Programme and Report, and noted that the four areas of work under the Programme: reform of the management of longline fishery; increasing the value of employment and ensuring effective labour standards are in place; facilitating investment and trade; and value chain participation, are consistent with, and expedite implementation of, several of the Goals and Strategies in the Fisheries Roadmap. Leaders concurred with the view of the Task Force that there is no need to change the management of the purse seine Vessel Day Scheme in the foreseeable future. At the same time, Leaders welcomed the PNAO’s openness to considering such a change, should it be appropriate at some future time. Leaders acknowledged the importance of ensuring more onshore investment opportunities.
7. Leaders also endorsed the review of the regional Monitoring Control and Surveillance (MCS) arrangements, and concurred that the combination of MCS tools, programmes, assets and activities at the national and regional level represent a world class MCS Framework that has achieved positive results for FFA members. Leaders noted that there were further improvements that would substantially enhance the MCS at the national and regional level, and which the FFA would pursue.
8. Leaders called for action to ending Illegal Unregulated Unreported fishing and associated activities, including high seas bunkering, human trafficking, and illicit trade. Leaders encouraged FFA to ensure the rapid implementation of the Tokelau
Arrangement. Leaders urged flag states to exercise more diligent efforts in carrying out their flag state responsibilities and control of nationals.
9. Recognising the ongoing importance of increasing economic returns and the sustainable management of fisheries, Leaders agreed that fisheries should remain on their agenda, and the need for ongoing cooperation between members of the Taskforce to implement the Work Programme.
10. In noting that coastal fisheries management continues to receive inadequate attention at the national level, Leaders agreed to expand the broad heading of “fisheries” to include coastal fisheries, noting links to communities, food security, health issues and in particular non-communicable diseases. Leaders also noted the need to ensure eco- system integrity to address issues such as ciguatera outbreaks and to sustainably manage Beche-de-Mer. To that end, Leaders tasked the SPC to coordinate with National Fisheries Agencies, CROP agencies and regional and national community groups, to strengthen support and resourcing for coastal fisheries management.
11. With regard the Regional Roadmap for Sustainable Fisheries and its report cards, Leaders noted the good progress and performance on indicators related to sustainability of tuna stocks, access revenue to Governments and employment rates; the continued commitment to progress work on harvest strategies for tuna stocks; ongoing concerns about the impacts of fish price volatility on indicators such as proportional fishery value, contribution of domestic fleets to Gross Domestic Product and value of exports to other Countries; and the need to better understand and improve the contribution of offshore fisheries to food security.
12. Leaders noted the progress in planning for the implementation of work to achieve the Goals of the Regional Roadmap for Sustainable Fisheries over its 10 year window.
13. Leaders noted the positive outcomes from the final renegotiation session of the Treaty between the United States of America and Certain Pacific Island Parties, noting that the outcomes provide flexible yet commercially valuable arrangements, as well as a sustainable long term basis for delivery of Economic Assistance from the US Government. Leaders congratulated Forum Fisheries Ministers for the successful renegotiation of the Treaty and acknowledged the leadership of the late Hon. Minister Elisala Pita.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT
14. Leaders reiterated the importance of the Pacific Islands Forum in maintaining a strong voice considering the region’s vulnerabilities to the impact of climate change. Leaders welcomed the Paris Agreement and reinforced that achieving the Agreement goal
9. Recognising the ongoing importance of increasing economic returns and the sustainable management of fisheries, Leaders agreed that fisheries should remain on their agenda, and the need for ongoing cooperation between members of the Taskforce to implement the Work Programme.
10. In noting that coastal fisheries management continues to receive inadequate attention at the national level, Leaders agreed to expand the broad heading of “fisheries” to include coastal fisheries, noting links to communities, food security, health issues and in particular non-communicable diseases. Leaders also noted the need to ensure eco- system integrity to address issues such as ciguatera outbreaks and to sustainably manage Beche-de-Mer. To that end, Leaders tasked the SPC to coordinate with National Fisheries Agencies, CROP agencies and regional and national community groups, to strengthen support and resourcing for coastal fisheries management.
11. With regard the Regional Roadmap for Sustainable Fisheries and its report cards, Leaders noted the good progress and performance on indicators related to sustainability of tuna stocks, access revenue to Governments and employment rates; the continued commitment to progress work on harvest strategies for tuna stocks; ongoing concerns about the impacts of fish price volatility on indicators such as proportional fishery value, contribution of domestic fleets to Gross Domestic Product and value of exports to other Countries; and the need to better understand and improve the contribution of offshore fisheries to food security.
12. Leaders noted the progress in planning for the implementation of work to achieve the Goals of the Regional Roadmap for Sustainable Fisheries over its 10 year window.
13. Leaders noted the positive outcomes from the final renegotiation session of the Treaty between the United States of America and Certain Pacific Island Parties, noting that the outcomes provide flexible yet commercially valuable arrangements, as well as a sustainable long term basis for delivery of Economic Assistance from the US Government. Leaders congratulated Forum Fisheries Ministers for the successful renegotiation of the Treaty and acknowledged the leadership of the late Hon. Minister Elisala Pita.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT
14. Leaders reiterated the importance of the Pacific Islands Forum in maintaining a strong voice considering the region’s vulnerabilities to the impact of climate change. Leaders welcomed the Paris Agreement and reinforced that achieving the Agreement goal
of limiting global temperature increases to 1.5°C above pre-industrialised levels is an existential matter for many Forum Members which must be addressed with urgency. Leaders congratulated the eight Forum countries that have ratified the Agreement and encouraged remaining Members and all other countries to sign and ratify the Agreement before the end of 2016 or as soon as possible. Leaders called for ambitious climate change action in and across all sectors and encouraged key stakeholders to prioritise their support for the implementation of key obligations under the Agreement.
15. Leaders endorsed the Framework for Resilient Development in the Pacific (FRDP) and agreed for it to be fully elaborated and operationalised upon the entry into force of the Paris Agreement and recognised its potential to support coordination and action on a number of key issues related to climate change and disaster risk management. Leaders noted that the FRDP (attached at Annex 1), is a voluntary non-political framework which does not replace the role of existing regional political statements or declarations on climate change and disaster risk management. Leaders agreed that the Pohnpei Statement: Strengthening Pacific Resilience to Climate Change and Disaster Risk would complement the FRDP (attached at Annex 2), and tasked the Forum Secretariat to convene a Working Group, including Members, CROP agencies, and relevant stakeholders, to elaborate on the Pacific Resilience Partnership (PRP) process by December 2016 to implement the FRDP.
16. Leaders welcomed last year’s Dubai Pathway on Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), in which Parties to the Montreal Protocol agreed to work to an amendment this year to phase down HFCs under the treaty. They highlighted the progress made by Parties at the recent Montreal Protocol meetings in Vienna, and they reiterated their support for an amendment to be agreed at the Meeting of the Parties in Kigali this October. The Leaders highlighted that such an amendment could prevent warming of up to 0.5 C by 2100 and is therefore critical for achieving the long-term temperature goals of the Paris Agreement.
17. Leaders stressed that the amendment should include an early freeze date for HFC production and an early freeze date for HFC production and consumption followed by a rapid phase down of HFCs. They also emphasised the need to maximise the climate benefits of an HFC phase down by providing incentives to secure the major energy efficiency gains in applications that can be achieved concomitant with the global phase down of HFCs.
WEST PAPUA (PAPUA)
18. Leaders recognised the political sensitivities of the issue of West Papua (Papua) and agreed the issue of alleged human rights violations in West Papua (Papua) should remain on their agenda. Leaders also agreed on the importance of an open and constructive dialogue with Indonesia on the issue.
15. Leaders endorsed the Framework for Resilient Development in the Pacific (FRDP) and agreed for it to be fully elaborated and operationalised upon the entry into force of the Paris Agreement and recognised its potential to support coordination and action on a number of key issues related to climate change and disaster risk management. Leaders noted that the FRDP (attached at Annex 1), is a voluntary non-political framework which does not replace the role of existing regional political statements or declarations on climate change and disaster risk management. Leaders agreed that the Pohnpei Statement: Strengthening Pacific Resilience to Climate Change and Disaster Risk would complement the FRDP (attached at Annex 2), and tasked the Forum Secretariat to convene a Working Group, including Members, CROP agencies, and relevant stakeholders, to elaborate on the Pacific Resilience Partnership (PRP) process by December 2016 to implement the FRDP.
16. Leaders welcomed last year’s Dubai Pathway on Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), in which Parties to the Montreal Protocol agreed to work to an amendment this year to phase down HFCs under the treaty. They highlighted the progress made by Parties at the recent Montreal Protocol meetings in Vienna, and they reiterated their support for an amendment to be agreed at the Meeting of the Parties in Kigali this October. The Leaders highlighted that such an amendment could prevent warming of up to 0.5 C by 2100 and is therefore critical for achieving the long-term temperature goals of the Paris Agreement.
17. Leaders stressed that the amendment should include an early freeze date for HFC production and an early freeze date for HFC production and consumption followed by a rapid phase down of HFCs. They also emphasised the need to maximise the climate benefits of an HFC phase down by providing incentives to secure the major energy efficiency gains in applications that can be achieved concomitant with the global phase down of HFCs.
WEST PAPUA (PAPUA)
18. Leaders recognised the political sensitivities of the issue of West Papua (Papua) and agreed the issue of alleged human rights violations in West Papua (Papua) should remain on their agenda. Leaders also agreed on the importance of an open and constructive dialogue with Indonesia on the issue.
CERVICAL CANCER
19. Leaders considered the need for the development of a regional bulk procurement programme for the cervical cancer vaccine (and screening and related equipment where possible). Leaders noted the existing bulk procurement programme managed by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and urged Members to avail themselves of the UNICEF programme.
REGIONAL MOBILITY AND HARMONISATION OF BUSINESS PRACTICE
20. While recognising the potential of initiatives on ‘Regional Mobility and Harmonisation of Business Practice’, to contribute to increased economic integration, greater investment and improved business practices, Leaders noted the potential to duplicate processes already underway through the PACER Plus Agreement, Melanesian Spearhead Group Trade Agreement, and the Pacific Labour Mobility Annual Meeting. Leaders tasked the Secretariat to work with Forum Members, relevant technical agencies and the private sector to coordinate efforts for increased mobility and harmonisation of business practices in the region.
21. Leaders noted the messages conveyed by the private sector through the Private Sector Dialogue. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to support private sector development in the region with a focus on improved mobility of businesses and skilled personnel, including the streamlining of business processes to support the ease of doing business in the Pacific. Leaders directed relevant Ministerial Meetings to lead and monitor progress on the implementation of these initiatives as appropriate.
22. Leaders discussed the importance of remittances to the economic wellbeing of Forum Island Countries and expressed concern with the proposed wholesale closure of money transfer agents’ bank accounts abroad without due de-risking consideration and proper understanding on the impacts on Members.
PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
23. Leaders acknowledged that disability continues to be an issue of significance for the region - reflecting on the region’s ability to protect the marginalised, as well as those that have been left behind in development processes. Leaders recognised that persons living with disabilities, and their families, continue to be disproportionately affected by poverty due to inaccessible services and the built environment, which prevent them from participating independently and being included in their own societies.
24. Leaders endorsed the Pacific Framework for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (PFRPD) 2016 – 2025 to support Pacific governments promote and protect
19. Leaders considered the need for the development of a regional bulk procurement programme for the cervical cancer vaccine (and screening and related equipment where possible). Leaders noted the existing bulk procurement programme managed by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and urged Members to avail themselves of the UNICEF programme.
REGIONAL MOBILITY AND HARMONISATION OF BUSINESS PRACTICE
20. While recognising the potential of initiatives on ‘Regional Mobility and Harmonisation of Business Practice’, to contribute to increased economic integration, greater investment and improved business practices, Leaders noted the potential to duplicate processes already underway through the PACER Plus Agreement, Melanesian Spearhead Group Trade Agreement, and the Pacific Labour Mobility Annual Meeting. Leaders tasked the Secretariat to work with Forum Members, relevant technical agencies and the private sector to coordinate efforts for increased mobility and harmonisation of business practices in the region.
21. Leaders noted the messages conveyed by the private sector through the Private Sector Dialogue. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to support private sector development in the region with a focus on improved mobility of businesses and skilled personnel, including the streamlining of business processes to support the ease of doing business in the Pacific. Leaders directed relevant Ministerial Meetings to lead and monitor progress on the implementation of these initiatives as appropriate.
22. Leaders discussed the importance of remittances to the economic wellbeing of Forum Island Countries and expressed concern with the proposed wholesale closure of money transfer agents’ bank accounts abroad without due de-risking consideration and proper understanding on the impacts on Members.
PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
23. Leaders acknowledged that disability continues to be an issue of significance for the region - reflecting on the region’s ability to protect the marginalised, as well as those that have been left behind in development processes. Leaders recognised that persons living with disabilities, and their families, continue to be disproportionately affected by poverty due to inaccessible services and the built environment, which prevent them from participating independently and being included in their own societies.
24. Leaders endorsed the Pacific Framework for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (PFRPD) 2016 – 2025 to support Pacific governments promote and protect
the rights of persons with disabilities as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and provide a regional modality to strengthen coordination and collaboration in support of national initiatives. Leaders tasked the Forum Secretariat to coordinate the effective implementation of the PFRPD and work with Forum Member countries, CROP agencies, the Pacific Disability Forum, and development partners to mainstream the PFRPD at regional and national levels.
2015 priorities for referral for Ministerial Oversight and Crosscutting themes
25. Leaders endorsed the SSCR’s recommendation that the 2015 priorities relating to ICT; and cervical cancer (national policy responses), be referred to the relevant ministries for discussion and oversight. Leaders agreed that while important, these issues do not require their continued discussion to be progressed. Leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to continue to focus on the issues of gender and poverty, and encouraged Ministers and Officials to mainstream both gender and poverty across all sectoral and thematic areas of work.
OCEANS
26. Leaders reaffirmed that the Pacific region's most important natural resource is the ocean. Leaders recalled that the Pacific had shown strong global leadership on oceans through the SAMOA Pathway and in ensuring a stand-alone SDG on the ocean and seas (SDG14). Leaders noted that the UN Conference on Oceans and Seas to support the implementation of SDG14, 5 – 9 June 2017, will now be held in New York. The Conference will provide the Pacific with another opportunity to lead the way and demonstrate its collective interest in the sustainable development, management and conservation of the Pacific Ocean and its resources, including through the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC).
27. Leaders recalled their support for negotiations towards implementing a new agreement to deal with biodiversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction, and acknowledged the technical support coordinated through the OPOC at discussions underway on the issue at the UN. Leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining the Pacific momentum towards a swift conclusion of the Preparatory Committee, to ensure approaches to ocean management across jurisdictions that do not undermine existing regional fisheries management arrangements. To that end and noting the global attention on oceans, Leaders endorsed the Pohnpei Oceans Statement: A Course to Sustainability (attached at Annex 3), and reaffirmed their support to the OPOC, given its central coordination role with respect to ocean governance and integrated ocean management in the region, under the Framework for a Pacific Oceanscape.
2015 priorities for referral for Ministerial Oversight and Crosscutting themes
25. Leaders endorsed the SSCR’s recommendation that the 2015 priorities relating to ICT; and cervical cancer (national policy responses), be referred to the relevant ministries for discussion and oversight. Leaders agreed that while important, these issues do not require their continued discussion to be progressed. Leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to continue to focus on the issues of gender and poverty, and encouraged Ministers and Officials to mainstream both gender and poverty across all sectoral and thematic areas of work.
OCEANS
26. Leaders reaffirmed that the Pacific region's most important natural resource is the ocean. Leaders recalled that the Pacific had shown strong global leadership on oceans through the SAMOA Pathway and in ensuring a stand-alone SDG on the ocean and seas (SDG14). Leaders noted that the UN Conference on Oceans and Seas to support the implementation of SDG14, 5 – 9 June 2017, will now be held in New York. The Conference will provide the Pacific with another opportunity to lead the way and demonstrate its collective interest in the sustainable development, management and conservation of the Pacific Ocean and its resources, including through the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC).
27. Leaders recalled their support for negotiations towards implementing a new agreement to deal with biodiversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction, and acknowledged the technical support coordinated through the OPOC at discussions underway on the issue at the UN. Leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining the Pacific momentum towards a swift conclusion of the Preparatory Committee, to ensure approaches to ocean management across jurisdictions that do not undermine existing regional fisheries management arrangements. To that end and noting the global attention on oceans, Leaders endorsed the Pohnpei Oceans Statement: A Course to Sustainability (attached at Annex 3), and reaffirmed their support to the OPOC, given its central coordination role with respect to ocean governance and integrated ocean management in the region, under the Framework for a Pacific Oceanscape.
THE 2030 AGENDA FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT/SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
28. Leaders commended progress by the Pacific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Taskforce and Reference Group on the development of a draft Outline of the Pacific SDGs Roadmap for regional reporting and implementation of the SDGs, SAMOA Pathway and the Framework. Leaders noted that the final Roadmap will be submitted for approval in September 2017.
29. Leaders acknowledged the regional leadership role by Samoa in being the first Pacific country and Small Island Developing State to submit its National Voluntary Report on the SDGs at the High Level Political Forum in July 2016.
MEMBERSHIP
30. Leaders accepted French Polynesia and New Caledonia as full Members of the Pacific Islands Forum.
REGIONAL ASSISTANCE MISSION TO SOLOMON ISLANDS
31. Leaders applauded RAMSI as a regional success story that has also contributed to strengthening regional cooperation and capacity building on security. Leaders welcomed the initiative taken by the Solomon Islands Government in addressing the underlying causes of the ethnic tension, which include prioritisation and sequencing of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations, land reform initiatives, legislative reforms, economic development initiatives and healing processes. Leaders welcomed commitments from the Governments of Australia and New Zealand that support to Solomon Islands will continue post-RAMSI, including to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, and will be developed in close consultation and coordination with the Solomon Islands Government. Leaders applauded the significant progress made so far in the drawdown of RAMSI and supported the oversight role of the Pacific Islands Forum on the eventual withdrawal of RAMSI in June 2017.
PACER PLUS
32. Leaders reiterated the need for PACER Plus to promote regional integration in the Pacific, and to assist the Forum Island Countries to achieve robust economic growth and sustainable development. In that regard, Leaders welcomed the conclusion of negotiations on all fifteen chapters of the PACER Plus text and called on all participants to continue to demonstrate good will and flexibility. Leaders noted that a timetable has been agreed for the conclusion of market access negotiations by the end of October 2016,
28. Leaders commended progress by the Pacific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Taskforce and Reference Group on the development of a draft Outline of the Pacific SDGs Roadmap for regional reporting and implementation of the SDGs, SAMOA Pathway and the Framework. Leaders noted that the final Roadmap will be submitted for approval in September 2017.
29. Leaders acknowledged the regional leadership role by Samoa in being the first Pacific country and Small Island Developing State to submit its National Voluntary Report on the SDGs at the High Level Political Forum in July 2016.
MEMBERSHIP
30. Leaders accepted French Polynesia and New Caledonia as full Members of the Pacific Islands Forum.
REGIONAL ASSISTANCE MISSION TO SOLOMON ISLANDS
31. Leaders applauded RAMSI as a regional success story that has also contributed to strengthening regional cooperation and capacity building on security. Leaders welcomed the initiative taken by the Solomon Islands Government in addressing the underlying causes of the ethnic tension, which include prioritisation and sequencing of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations, land reform initiatives, legislative reforms, economic development initiatives and healing processes. Leaders welcomed commitments from the Governments of Australia and New Zealand that support to Solomon Islands will continue post-RAMSI, including to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, and will be developed in close consultation and coordination with the Solomon Islands Government. Leaders applauded the significant progress made so far in the drawdown of RAMSI and supported the oversight role of the Pacific Islands Forum on the eventual withdrawal of RAMSI in June 2017.
PACER PLUS
32. Leaders reiterated the need for PACER Plus to promote regional integration in the Pacific, and to assist the Forum Island Countries to achieve robust economic growth and sustainable development. In that regard, Leaders welcomed the conclusion of negotiations on all fifteen chapters of the PACER Plus text and called on all participants to continue to demonstrate good will and flexibility. Leaders noted that a timetable has been agreed for the conclusion of market access negotiations by the end of October 2016,
and for the Agreement to be signed by the end of 2016. Leaders noted the withdrawal by Papua New Guinea from PACER Plus and reservations by Fiji on the current legal text.
33. Leaders welcomed the commitment by Australia and New Zealand to provide appropriate resources for the implementation of PACER Plus with respect to the development and economic cooperation chapter of the text, and for the broader trade related assistance needs of the FICs. This includes an initial joint A$7.7 million Readiness Package to be available to signatories between signature and entry into force, to assist in undertaking necessary work for the ratification process of PACER Plus.
34. Leaders noted that the conclusions and recommendations of the Sustainable Impact Assessment prepared by the Office of the Chief Trade Adviser in consultation with relevant stakeholders, would be used as a basis for ongoing engagement with stakeholders on the possible economic, social and environmental impacts of trade liberalisation under PACER Plus.
PACIFIC LEADERS GENDER EQUALITY DECLARATION
35. Leaders noted that since the adoption of the 2012 Pacific Leaders Gender Equality Declaration (PLGED), regional progress on achieving gender equality has generally improved, albeit slowly. Common challenges include attitudinal and behavioural barriers, insufficient funding, and fragmentation and lack of coordination amongst agencies.
36. Leaders agreed that future reporting on the PLGED would comprise: a full report on progress against the PLGED incorporated into the proposed quadrennial regional reporting of progress against the SDGs, with the first regional report proposed for 2018; and a report on a particular theme/area of the PLGED prepared biennially, between the full regional SDGs report, to maintain a focus on progressing gender-related commitments.
CYBER SECURITY
37. Leaders welcomed the exponential growth in internet connectivity in the region and access to world markets and global knowledge it brings. Leaders agreed Forum members should work together to establish a Computer Emergency Response Team capacity for the region to combat cyber threats and cybercrime.
33. Leaders welcomed the commitment by Australia and New Zealand to provide appropriate resources for the implementation of PACER Plus with respect to the development and economic cooperation chapter of the text, and for the broader trade related assistance needs of the FICs. This includes an initial joint A$7.7 million Readiness Package to be available to signatories between signature and entry into force, to assist in undertaking necessary work for the ratification process of PACER Plus.
34. Leaders noted that the conclusions and recommendations of the Sustainable Impact Assessment prepared by the Office of the Chief Trade Adviser in consultation with relevant stakeholders, would be used as a basis for ongoing engagement with stakeholders on the possible economic, social and environmental impacts of trade liberalisation under PACER Plus.
PACIFIC LEADERS GENDER EQUALITY DECLARATION
35. Leaders noted that since the adoption of the 2012 Pacific Leaders Gender Equality Declaration (PLGED), regional progress on achieving gender equality has generally improved, albeit slowly. Common challenges include attitudinal and behavioural barriers, insufficient funding, and fragmentation and lack of coordination amongst agencies.
36. Leaders agreed that future reporting on the PLGED would comprise: a full report on progress against the PLGED incorporated into the proposed quadrennial regional reporting of progress against the SDGs, with the first regional report proposed for 2018; and a report on a particular theme/area of the PLGED prepared biennially, between the full regional SDGs report, to maintain a focus on progressing gender-related commitments.
CYBER SECURITY
37. Leaders welcomed the exponential growth in internet connectivity in the region and access to world markets and global knowledge it brings. Leaders agreed Forum members should work together to establish a Computer Emergency Response Team capacity for the region to combat cyber threats and cybercrime.
CRIMINAL DEPORTEES
38. Leaders noted the challenges and inherent security risks faced by Forum Members relating to the growing number of criminal deportations from metropolitan countries.
RADIOACTIVE CONTAMINANTS IN THE REPUBLIC OF THE MARSHALL ISLANDS
38. Leaders noted the challenges and inherent security risks faced by Forum Members relating to the growing number of criminal deportations from metropolitan countries.
RADIOACTIVE CONTAMINANTS IN THE REPUBLIC OF THE MARSHALL ISLANDS
39. Leaders recalled that the Republic of the Marshall Islands was placed by the |
international community under the trusteeship of the United Nations administered by the United States of America, both of which therefore have ongoing obligations to encourage a final and just resolution for the Marshallese people. Leaders welcomed the recommendations in the Special Rapporteur’s report submitted to the UN Human Rights Council in September 2012. 40. Leaders supported bilateral, regional and multilateral action to assist the Republic of the Marshall Islands in its efforts to engage the United States towards a justified fair and just resolution to the U.S. Nuclear Testing Programme and agreed to submit letters to the U.S. Government urging the United States to take further action to meaningfully address the ongoing impacts resulting from the U.S. Nuclear Testing Programme, and to the United Nations Secretary-General seeking action in response to the recommendations contained in the 2012 report of the UN Human Rights Council Special Rapporteur for “the international community, including relevant United Nations departments, funds and agencies” to address the ongoing impacts of nuclear testing in the Pacific. 41. Leaders tasked the Forum Secretariat to coordinate assistance by CROP Agencies to the Republic of the Marshall Islands in addressing ongoing impacts of nuclear testing, |
including, inter alia, human rights, environmental contamination, and health impacts. Leaders also tasked the Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General to report to the 48th Pacific Islands Forum on actions taken in this regard. |
POST-FORUM DIALOGUE APPLICATION
42. Leaders agreed to admit the Federal Republic of Germany as the seventeenth Post-Forum Dialogue Partner, and noted that it will attend the 2016 28th Post-Forum Dialogue Plenary Meeting.
CANDIDACIES
43. Leaders supported the candidacies of Australia to the Human Rights Council 2018-2020 and the Cook Islands to the UNESCO Executive Board 2017.
42. Leaders agreed to admit the Federal Republic of Germany as the seventeenth Post-Forum Dialogue Partner, and noted that it will attend the 2016 28th Post-Forum Dialogue Plenary Meeting.
CANDIDACIES
43. Leaders supported the candidacies of Australia to the Human Rights Council 2018-2020 and the Cook Islands to the UNESCO Executive Board 2017.
OUTCOMES OF THE SMALLER ISLANDS STATES LEADERS MEETING
44. Leaders endorsed the SIS Regional Strategy as the basis for articulating SIS regional priorities and aspirations with the Framework.
45. Leaders noted the outcomes of the SIS Leaders Meeting held in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia on 7 September 2016 and welcomed the SIS Leaders’ decision to admit the Federated States of Micronesia in the SIS Group.
VENUE FOR NEXT MEETING
46. Leaders confirmed Samoa as the host for the 2017 Forum, Nauru in 2018, and Tuvalu in 2019.
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1) Preserving biodiversity for a prosperous Papua
2) French territories granted full forum membership
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1) Preserving biodiversity for a prosperous Papua
Minggu, 11 September 2016 20:28 WIB | 926 Views Pewarta: Fardah
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The Agirway dancers of Papua performed the exquisite Ballads of Cendrawasih (Birds of Paradise) dance, marking the opening of an International Conference on Biodiversity, Eco-Tourism and Creative Economy (ICBE), and showcasing Papuas famed biodiversity.
Indonesias easternmost island of Papua is, in fact, often referred to as the last remaining fortress of the worlds biodiversity.
Held under the theme of "Biodiversity and Ecotourism, Papua Economic Solutions", a number of countries and international institutions participated in the conference held in Jayapura from September 7-10.
Discussions also revolved around the sub theme of "Utilize Natural Resources, Increase Livelihood, Protect the Golden Generation of Papua."
An exhibition featuring 60 stands, and screening of 20 short films on Papuas culture and environment marked the conference.
The gala opening ceremony was attended by Norwegian Ambassador to Indonesia Stig Traavik and diplomats from the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, the Netherlands, and Papua New Guinea, among others.
Voicing high expectations, Papua Governor Lukas Enembe hoped the ICBE would boost the efforts to set up biodiversity parks and cultural parks to preserve the environment, particularly protect bird of Paradise, Papuas iconic bird.
Birds of Paradise, locally called birds of Cenderawasih, are the pride of Indonesia, particularly of Papua, whose forest is home to these birds, considered among the most beautiful in the world.
The birds of Paradise are endangered not just on account of poachers, but also because visitors seek dead and preserved ones as souvenirs.
The governor believed that preserving environment is crucial for the prosperity of Papua's indigenous people to help pull them out of backwardness and a life of poverty, ignorance and isolation.
Papuas range of biodiversity encompasses half of Indonesias mega biodiversity, particularly the endemic flora and fauna that are only found on this island.
The island, comprising West Papua and Papua Provinces, is home to some 250 tribes that retain ancient cultural traditions, and over 250 indigenous languages and dialects.
Home to the worlds remaining virgin tropical rainforests with vast biological diversity, the island is also endowed with endemic fauna such as possums, wallabies, tree-kangaroos, and endangered Long-beaked Echidna. It also has the worlds longest lizards and largest butterflies.
Its biodiversity includes 15 thousand to 20 thousand plant species (55 percent endemic), two thousand species of orchids, 602 species of birds (52 percent endemic), and 125 species of mammals (58 percent endemic), in addition to 223 species of reptiles and amphibians (35 percent endemic), 25 species of freshwater fish and 1,200 species of marine fish, as well as an estimated 150 thousand species of insects, according to the 2013 data of Papua Ecology.
Large parts of the equatorial glacier fields in the highlands remain substantially unexplored. Protected areas within Papua province include the Lorentz National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Wasur National Park, a RAMSAR wetland of international importance.
The Papua provincial administration hoped that events such as the ICBE will inspire Papua to realize a vision of prosperity, and enable it to pursue sustainable and high quality development programs.
The conference played an important role in propagating Papua as a region rich in natural resources, onshore and offshore, that must be developed in a sustainable fashion.
The governor underlined that with the support of the visionary people of Papua who have entrepreneurship skills in biodiversity, eco-tourism and creative economy, Papua and West Papua would be able to grow fast.
The provincial administration of Papua is observing 2016 as the year of investments, he recalled.
"Therefore, through this conference, I call upon all of us to work together, hand in hand, for the welfare of Papua," he exhorted.
The conference's recommendations will be crucial to Indonesias efforts to preserve its easternmost islands environment. The agreements reached during the meeting are also expected to support environmental preservation, not only in Papua or Indonesia but even globally.
Enembe remarked that the Norwegian ambassador, in cooperation with the United Nations, will assist in supervising the export of timber products from Papua to ensure these are not sourced from illegal logging activities, he noted.
In the field of tourism, Papua is particularly trying to lure tourists from Southeast Asian nations to visit the country's largest island. One of its tourist attractions is the Baliem Valley Cultural Festival that celebrates fertility and welfare of the tribal people.
The Baliem Valley is located in the central mountains of Papua. The valley, once dubbed as "Shangrila," is incredibly lush and fertile, with 2.5 thousand to three thousand meters high towering peaks surrounding it on all sides.
The Baliem Valley Festival, organized annually since 1989, is usually held in August.(*)
Indonesias easternmost island of Papua is, in fact, often referred to as the last remaining fortress of the worlds biodiversity.
Held under the theme of "Biodiversity and Ecotourism, Papua Economic Solutions", a number of countries and international institutions participated in the conference held in Jayapura from September 7-10.
Discussions also revolved around the sub theme of "Utilize Natural Resources, Increase Livelihood, Protect the Golden Generation of Papua."
An exhibition featuring 60 stands, and screening of 20 short films on Papuas culture and environment marked the conference.
The gala opening ceremony was attended by Norwegian Ambassador to Indonesia Stig Traavik and diplomats from the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, the Netherlands, and Papua New Guinea, among others.
Voicing high expectations, Papua Governor Lukas Enembe hoped the ICBE would boost the efforts to set up biodiversity parks and cultural parks to preserve the environment, particularly protect bird of Paradise, Papuas iconic bird.
Birds of Paradise, locally called birds of Cenderawasih, are the pride of Indonesia, particularly of Papua, whose forest is home to these birds, considered among the most beautiful in the world.
The birds of Paradise are endangered not just on account of poachers, but also because visitors seek dead and preserved ones as souvenirs.
The governor believed that preserving environment is crucial for the prosperity of Papua's indigenous people to help pull them out of backwardness and a life of poverty, ignorance and isolation.
Papuas range of biodiversity encompasses half of Indonesias mega biodiversity, particularly the endemic flora and fauna that are only found on this island.
The island, comprising West Papua and Papua Provinces, is home to some 250 tribes that retain ancient cultural traditions, and over 250 indigenous languages and dialects.
Home to the worlds remaining virgin tropical rainforests with vast biological diversity, the island is also endowed with endemic fauna such as possums, wallabies, tree-kangaroos, and endangered Long-beaked Echidna. It also has the worlds longest lizards and largest butterflies.
Its biodiversity includes 15 thousand to 20 thousand plant species (55 percent endemic), two thousand species of orchids, 602 species of birds (52 percent endemic), and 125 species of mammals (58 percent endemic), in addition to 223 species of reptiles and amphibians (35 percent endemic), 25 species of freshwater fish and 1,200 species of marine fish, as well as an estimated 150 thousand species of insects, according to the 2013 data of Papua Ecology.
Large parts of the equatorial glacier fields in the highlands remain substantially unexplored. Protected areas within Papua province include the Lorentz National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Wasur National Park, a RAMSAR wetland of international importance.
The Papua provincial administration hoped that events such as the ICBE will inspire Papua to realize a vision of prosperity, and enable it to pursue sustainable and high quality development programs.
The conference played an important role in propagating Papua as a region rich in natural resources, onshore and offshore, that must be developed in a sustainable fashion.
The governor underlined that with the support of the visionary people of Papua who have entrepreneurship skills in biodiversity, eco-tourism and creative economy, Papua and West Papua would be able to grow fast.
The provincial administration of Papua is observing 2016 as the year of investments, he recalled.
"Therefore, through this conference, I call upon all of us to work together, hand in hand, for the welfare of Papua," he exhorted.
The conference's recommendations will be crucial to Indonesias efforts to preserve its easternmost islands environment. The agreements reached during the meeting are also expected to support environmental preservation, not only in Papua or Indonesia but even globally.
Enembe remarked that the Norwegian ambassador, in cooperation with the United Nations, will assist in supervising the export of timber products from Papua to ensure these are not sourced from illegal logging activities, he noted.
In the field of tourism, Papua is particularly trying to lure tourists from Southeast Asian nations to visit the country's largest island. One of its tourist attractions is the Baliem Valley Cultural Festival that celebrates fertility and welfare of the tribal people.
The Baliem Valley is located in the central mountains of Papua. The valley, once dubbed as "Shangrila," is incredibly lush and fertile, with 2.5 thousand to three thousand meters high towering peaks surrounding it on all sides.
The Baliem Valley Festival, organized annually since 1989, is usually held in August.(*)
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8:12 pm on 11 September 2016
Leaders at the Pacific Islands Forum summit in Pohnpei have agreed to grant New Caledonia and French Polynesia full membership.
The French territories have been vying for years for full membership of the regional body, which is meant to be for independent countries only.
The decision was made unanimously by the Forum's 16 member states.
In a statement, the president of French Polynesia, Edouard Fritch, called the decision historic, saying it would see greater involvement of the French Pacific territories in regional affairs.
The incorporation of New Caledonia and French Polynesia was supported by France, as well as the forum's two largest members, Australia and New Zealand.
However, there have been some fears expressed in the past that including the territories would lead to an encroachment of France into regional policy, especially considering the legacy of nuclear testing.
There has also been some opposition within the territories. In New Caledonia, some indigenous Kanaks have opposed its integration before a referendum on possible independence planned for 2018.
In French Polynesia, independence activists led by Oscar Temaru have opposed its integration under colonialism.
France's other territory in the region, Wallis and Futuna, will remain an observer at the Forum.
But the inclusion of New Caledonia and French Polynesia has raised questions about the status of other territories in the Pacific, such as Guam, American Samoa and the thorny issue of West Papua.
West Papua was discussed at the leaders' summit, but they agreed to recognise the political sensitivities of it and that the issue of alleged human rights violations should remain on the agenda.
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Media release-Pacific Countries should support re inscription of West Papua on the decolonisation list
Australia West Papua Association (Sydney)
Media Release 12 September 2016
Pacific Countries should support re inscription of West Papua on the decolonisation list
West Papuan supporters at MSG Secretariet in Port Vila earlier this year
Although AWPA is encouraged that the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders have decided that human rights violations in West Papua should remain on their agenda, it was disappointing that no mention of a PIF fact-finding mission to West Papua was mentioned in the official communiqué.
Joe Collins of AWPA said, it is hoped that at the Post Forum Dialogue which Indonesian attends, that the PIF Leaders continued to vigorously requested the Indonesian Government to allow a PIF fact-finding mission to West Papua to investigate the human rights situation in the territory.
As massive support for West Papua grows throughout the Pacific region from civil society organisations, churches and the recently formed “Pacific Coalition on West Papua” (PCWP),
West Papua is truly back on the agenda and hopefully the international community is taking note of this groundswell of support.
The so called act of free choice in 1969 was a sham and 53 years later West Papuans are still marching in the streets calling for justice.
A number of Pacific countries have already raised West Papua at various UN committees and its hoped with this growing support in the region that both the PIF and the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) will not only continue to raise the issue at the UN but support the call by civil society organisations for the re inscription of West Papua on the decolonisation list.
Ends
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1) Melanesians’ support for West Papua strong - Nathan
2) TNI-Police Seize Dozens of Sharp Weapons in RI-PNG Border
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1) Melanesians’ support for West Papua strong - Nathan
1:53 pm today
Vanuatu's deputy prime minister says the strong support for West Papuans among the people of Melanesia should eventually translate to a co-ordinated regional response.
Joe Nathan admits there are differences of approach on Papua among member governments of the Melanesian Spearhead Group about the bid for full membership by the United Liberation Movement for West Papua.
Mr Natuman said there's been a lot of lobbying of members by Indonesia's government, with announcements of assistance to regional governments.
But he said people in Melanesia are firmly in support for helping Papua.
"The population in Melanesia, so far they have been very vocal. Before it was only Vanuatu, but now Solomons, PNG and Fiji. The Churches are involved, the chiefs are involved, the general populace are involved. And I sure that eventually they'll force their attitude regarding human rights, and self-determination and independence in West Papua."
Mr Nathan conceded that the MSG has been a bit compromised due to is budgetary shortfalls, forcing it seek more funding for its operations but he doesn't think Indonesia's promises of help are genuine.
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2) TNI-Police Seize Dozens of Sharp Weapons in RI-PNG Border
ANTARA FOTO
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A joint team of the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI) and the Police confiscated dozens of sharp weapons and bottles hard liquors during a sweeping on Saturday evening (10/9) in a number of streets in Jayapura near Indonesia-PNG border.
Commander Task Unit of Indonesia-PNG Border Lieutenant Colonel Kohir on Sunday said that the sweeping was done to create a conducive atmosphere before Eid al-Adha on Monday.
"We’ve confiscated 24 sharp weapons of various sizes and 18 bottles of hard liquor of various brands," Kohi said.
"The sweeping began at 9 pm local time, in five points, including KM 31, KM 9, KM 6 and some other areas," he added.
ALFIAN RUMAGIT | ANTARA
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Summary of events in West Papua for August -13 September 2016
Australia West Papua Association (Sydney)
PO Box 28, Spit Junction, NSW 2088
Summary of events in West Papua for August -13 September 2016
Support for West Papua counties to grow throughout the Pacific region.
Much of it around the lobbying of the two regional organisations the MSG and the PIF by West Papuan leaders, Civil Society Organisations (CSO) and churches. Recently a new “Pacific Coalition on West Papua” was formed. The initial membership comprises the Solomon Islands Government, Vanuatu Government, Front de Liberation Nationale Kanak et Socialiste (FLNKS) and the United Liberation Movement of West Papua and the Pacific Islands Alliance of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO). Two new members are the governments of Tuvalu and the Republic of Nauru.. The other two parties who indicated support for the initiative when it was introduced in Honiara at the margin of the 4th Pacific Islands Development Summit are the Kingdom of Tonga and the Republic of Marshall Islands. http://www.pina.com.fj/?p=pacnews&m=read&o=197360130357cd01103ae4d63a6626
The 47th Pacific Islands Forum Meeting was held in the Federated States of Micronesia between the 8 - 10 September. CSO’s presented a position paper concerning Human Rights violations in West Papua urging the PIF Leaders to:
a) Actively engage with the Indonesian Government to halt the deteriorating human rights violations and
b) Discuss with the UN Secretary-General at their annual meeting (Forum Update in New York on the margins of UNGA) to appoint a special envoy to conduct human rights assessment in West Papua.
c) Sponsor the re-instatement of West Papua on the United Nations Committee for Decolonisation and enquire into past actions for its removal.
Although West Papua was mentioned in the official Communique
it is hoped that at the Post Forum Dialogue which Indonesian attends that the PIF Leaders continued to raise the issue of a fact-finding mission with Indonesian representatives. AWPA release
From communiqué in relation to West Papua
18. Leaders recognised the political sensitivities of the issue of West Papua (Papua) and agreed the issue of alleged human rights violations in West Papua (Papua) should remain on their agenda. Leaders also agreed on the importance of an open and constructive dialogue with Indonesia on the issue. Full Communique
Geo-politics at play over Leader’s lack of expressed commitment on West Papua
Pacific leaders’ lack of expressed commitment to action the case of West Papua at their meeting in Federated States of Micronesia may be due to geo politics says Pacific Islands Association of NGOs (PIANGO) executive director, Emele Duituturaga. “Generally, the result of the 47th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting as articulated in their communiqué was a mixed one for civil society,” Duituturaga said. “We are happy that some of the issues we pushed for like the Pacific Framework for the Rights of Persons with Disability, Climate Change and disaster risk management, and coastal fisheries were endorsed by the leaders and reflected in the communiqué.” “For West Papua – while the human rights violations were mentioned, the push by CSOs to have West Papua raised at the United Nations is not reflected,” she said. http://www.pina.com.fj/index.php?p=pacnews&m=read&o=126936984557d77a24c733731839b1
Executive director, Emele Duituturaga
Leading up to the Forum, Dame Meg Taylor, Secretary General of the PIF said that West Papua is a sensitive issue for some Pacific governments, but one that needs to be debated. It’s an issue that needs to be pursued and it’s not going to go away,” she said. “Our bigger countries in the region like Australia and New Zealand realise that this issue is just not going to go to sleep – and it shouldn’t go to sleep, because it is very important for our region.”
Pacific civil society organisation representatives have put in a strong bid for Pacific leaders to support the involvement of the United Nations in the case of the people of West Papua. This was one of the key points CSO reps submitted during their scheduled breakfast meeting in Pohnpei today with members of the Pacific Islands Forum troika, comprising the past, current and future chair of the 16-member island group. Outgoing chair and Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Peter O’Neil was absent from today’s breakfast as he is not due to arrive into the FSM until later today. His Foreign Minister Rimbink Pato stood in for him.“What was encouraging in the dialogue was the consideration and the recognition that the United Nations process is available,” head of the Pacific Islands NGO Association, Emele Duituturaga told journalists at the end of the breakfast meeting.“We detected an acceptance that this possibly could be one of the pathways. I think the difference is that up until now, we always thought this is a Melanesian issue. In our recommendations, we tried to assist our leaders recognise some of the bilateral arrangements, bilateral assistance that somehow might be hindering the options we need to look at.” Speaking to journalists at the end of the breakfast meeting, Samoa’s Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Neioti Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi confirmed that the CSO reps raised the issue of West Papua, but declined to be drawn into what the Forum leaders would decide.
http://www.emtv.com.pg/news/2016/09/pacific-ngo-lobbies-hard-for-west-papua/
SI Given leading role to advocate on West Papua issues
The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation reported (18 Aug.) that the Solomon Islands has been given the leadership role in advocating on the issues of human rights violation and allegations in West Papua. The leadership role was bestowed upon the country following last week’s Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers meeting in Suva, Fiji. This will see Solomon Islands play a leading role in ensuring issues of West Papua remains active amongst Forum leaders.
The Fiji Times also reported (19 Aug.) that Foreign Ministers from the Pacific Islands have reiterated the importance of upholding human rights across the region and also the need for continued engagement with Indonesia in relation to the ongoing genocide in West Papua. http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=367540
Melanesians’ support for West Papua strong - Natuman
RNZI 12 September 2016
Vanuatu's deputy prime minister says the strong support for West Papuans among the people of Melanesia should eventually translate to a co-ordinated regional response. Joe Nathan admits there are differences of approach on Papua among member governments of the Melanesian Spearhead Group about the bid for full membership by the United Liberation Movement for West Papua
Deputy Prime Minster Joe Natuman. Photo: RNZI / Kim Baker-Wilson
Mr Natuman said there's been a lot of lobbying of members by Indonesia's government, with announcements of assistance to regional governments.
But he said people in Melanesia are firmly in support for helping Papua. "The population in Melanesia, so far they have been very vocal. Before it was only Vanuatu, but now Solomons, PNG and Fiji. The Churches are involved, the chiefs are involved, the general populace are involved. And I sure that eventually they'll force their attitude regarding human rights, and self-determination and independence in West Papua." Mr Natuman conceded that the MSG has been a bit compromised due to is budgetary shortfalls, forcing it seek more funding for its operations but he doesn't think Indonesia's promises of help are genuine.
In New Zealand hundreds of Māori students marched to New Zealand's parliament calling for freedom for West Papua. The march was met at the steps of parliament by MPs from various political parties, who spoke of their concern about Indonesian state oppression in the Papua region. The students gathered in the capital for the annual conference Te Huinga Tauira o Te Mana Ākonga, this year hosted by Ngāi Tauira, the Māori Students' Association at Victoria University of Wellington. A co-president of Ngāi Tauira, Raimona Tapiata, said the hundreds gathered felt strongly about the plight of West Papuans, from which they drew many parallels with how Māori experienced colonialism. (RNZI 27 Aug.) RNZI also reported (6 Sept.) that a petition has been tabled in New Zealand's parliament calling on the government to make a number of representations on the plight of West Papuans.It calls on the parliament to urge the New Zealand Government to address the ongoing human rights situation in West Papua by taking a series of actions. These include publicly advocating for the Indonesian government to uphold the rights of the indigenous people of Papua region, or West Papua, to freedom of assembly and freedom of speech.
The public petition, which garnered 1367 signatures, was handed over to a group of Labour and Greens MPs today before being tabled in the chamber.
http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/311832/maori-students-in-nz-march-for-west-papua
NZ Green MP Marama Davidson Photo: RNZ
Bishops in Pacific region declare support for West Papua
Support: Port Moresby Archbishop John Ribat, Parramatta Bishop Vincent Long, Toowoomba Bishop Robert McGuckin, Palmerston North Bishop Charles Drennan, Noumea Archbishop Michel Calvet and Port Vila Bishop John Bosco.
CATHOLIC bishops from across the Pacific region also declared support for West Papua to have a greater international voice. Dignity for West Papuans was a focus issue for the executive committee of the Federation of Catholic Bishops’ Conferences of Oceania in Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Pacific Islands meeting in Port Moresby. Toowoomba Bishop Robert McGuckin and Parramatta Bishop Vincent Long represented Australia. “They (West Papuans) seek what every family and culture seeks: respect of personal and communal dignity, free expression of one’s aspirations, and good neighbourly relations,” the Catholic bishops said in a statement. “Political boundaries can never contain or control ethnic relationships and so we urge governments to support the West Papuan people’s desire to participate fully in the Melanesian Spearhead Group.”
Pacific women call for investigation of women's rights in West Papua
West Papuan human rights activist Rode Wanimbo address the 7th Pacific Women's Network Against Violence Against Women, while Bernadetha Mahuse looks on. Photo: Pacific Women's Network Against Violence Against Women (In RNZI report)
Pacific women are also calling for an independent mission to investigate violence against women in Indonesia's Papua region. The call comes from the Pacific Women's Network Against Violence Against Women which represents policy makers and front line workers from 13 Pacific countries. Representatives of women from West Papua attended the networks 7th meeting in Fiji last week and raised some critical issues and gaps in service delivery for victims of gender violence in West Papua.
West Papuan leader rallies support ahead of summit
A West Papua leader says he is the most optimistic he has been in years about gaining support from this week's Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting in the Federated States of Micronesia.
The secretary general of the United Liberation Movement for West Papua, Octo Mote, said support for West Papua human rights and self-determination had been building throughout the island region over the past year.
He said a year ago that just the Melanesian Spearhead Group and Tonga supported them, but this year there was backing from Micronesian, Polynesian and Melanesian countries. The key to his optimism was the strong advocacy of the Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, who last year appointed the first government envoy for West Papua and provided government funding for his work. Dr Mote said the Marshall Islands President, Hilda Heine, had made it clear her country was backing the West Papua cause. He said for the Marshalls human rights was the main issue.
Dr Mote said West Papua's case for self-determination would finally get back to the United Nations Decolonization Committee for review. The ULMWP asked the Forum to support a call to the UN to review the case of West Papua.
New York Agreement
Rallies took place around the world to commemorate the New York Agreement. On the 15 August 1962 an agreement was signed between the Republic of Indonesia and the Kingdom of the Netherlands concerning West New Guinea. The signing of the New York Agreement lead to the betrayal of the West Papuan people. In West Papua over 50 KNPB activists were arrested leading up to the commemoration of the New York Agreement. The activists were arrested simply because they were handing out leaflets informing people of peaceful rallies to be held on the 15th to commemorate this tragic event. AWPA condemned the arrests. RNZI report at
In Jayapura hundreds attended a rally organized by the KNPB. A report in the Jakarta post said about 100 KNPB supporters were rounded up in a police truck but later released although subjected to some violence while in the truck. During the rally a number of food stalls and tyres were burned and although the security forces blamed the KNPB the KNPB denied their involvement. In a RNZI report (16 Aug.) a West Papuan lawyer and Catholic lay activist said the KNPB were wrongly blamed for the unrest. "People know that already it is not done by the KNPB members”.
Photos of Sydney supporters for a Free West Papua -15 August
Officer Shoots Dead Boy in Sugapa, Residents Torch Police Station
Jayapura, Jubi – A teenager died after being shot allegedly by a Mobile Brigade officer in Sugapa. Angry residents set fire to the Sugaba Police Station in response to the news. A local resident contacted by Jubi said the shooting occurred on Saturday (27/8/2016) at around 10:25 Papua time and followed a previous shooting on Thursday (25/8/2016). “On Thursday, Nope Sani and Nole Sondegau offered the firewood but rejected by the Company Tigi Jaya that paved the Papua Trans road. Don’t know why the company then called the Mobile Brigade whose officer came and shot the two boys three times but missed,” said Sugapa resident on Saturday evening.
Angry residents set fire to the Sugaba Police Station – Jubi
Jubi report at
A report by the International Coalition for Papua on the incident at
New Report-Burning Paradise: Palm Oil in the Land of the Tree Kangaroo
The report details the activities of the Palm oil company Korindo which is a Korean Indonesian company, its name made up from the words Korea and Indonesia, is the largest palm oil company in Papua. The report found that over 50,000 hectares of tropical lowland forests –– have been devastated by the group. they are also responsible for illegal forest fires. The burning of native forests is illegal under Indonesian law. The report also points out that the company does everything it can to keep journalists and environmental out. They block the roads, lie to the press, and blame the Papuan people for the fires the majority. of whom never consented to their land been taking in the first place and probably one off the reasons that the Env. groups used drones to gain video footage of much of the destruction.
Report at
Drone footage
The devastating deforestation of Papua for the palm oil industry, from above
Papuan plea to Widodo to save forests
RNZI 31 August 2016
A priest in Indonesia's Papua region has appealed to President Joko Widodo to halt the destruction of pristine forests by a palm oil developer.
The Catholic UCA news service reports Father Anselmus Amo saying the forest in Papua’s Muting area, about 200 kilometres from Merauke, is being snatched from tribal people who depend on it for their survival.
The south eastern region of Papua province has seen significant forest clearance and fires from destroyed forest and peatlands in the past year. Photo: NASA (in RNZI report)
The southeastern region of Papua province has seen significant forest clearance and fires from destroyed forest and peatlands in the past year. Photo: NASA
Tribal leaders say they are being intimidated by the military to hand their land over to the palm company - PT Agroprima Cipta Persada.
The priest who heads the Diocesan Justice and Peace Commission said he had petitioned the president because he was the last hope for the people.
He said petitions sent to the local government, military, and police have been ignored.
Father Amo told the website that the issue has caused widespread anxiety and tension between people, the company, local government and law enforcers. He said he has also approached the National Commission on Human Rights.
Opinion pieces/press releases/reports etc.
Australia continues to be shamefully silent on Indonesia’s human rights abuses
Freeport Suspected of Mining Gold in Lorentz National Park underground
Plantations get military, police backup
The good, the bad, and the ugly in palm oil (commentary)
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