Book documents abuses on Bougainville

Book documents abuses on Bougainville

By Roberto Jorquera

SYDNEY — Sixty-five Bougainville solidarity activists gathered at the state parliament theatrette on May 1 for the launch of Human Rights Abuses Against the People of Bougainville 1989-1995, compiled by Marilyn Taleo Havini.

Jo Faith from the NSW Greens opened the meeting by noting that the six-year blockade of Bougainville, aided by the ALP federal government, contributed to the human rights violations on the island.

Marilyn Havini pointed out that 2000 Bougainvilleans have been forced to flee to the Solomon Islands to escape the Papua New Guinea armed forces.

In the book's forward, Bougainville activist Moses Havini notes, "The intervention of Port Moresby and Canberra in this war through their armed forces and military aid, is tantamount to a gross violation of the human rights of the population of Bougainville". He also makes the point that "the war in Bougainville could not continue without Australia's support".

For copies of the book, contact the Bougainville Freedom Movement on (02) 290 1620.

From GLW issue 186