Papua New Guinea and Indonesia have formally ratified a defence agreement, which enables an enhancement of military operations between the two countries, with a specific focus on strengthening patrols along the border between PNG and Indonesia, writes Ali Mirin. But what will this mean for the security and sovereignty of West Papuans?
Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG)
West Papuans and their supporters say they have been “let down” by Melanesian Spearhead Group leaders over a decision not to admit the United Liberation Movement of West Papua as a full member, reports Susan Price.
Pacific elders are speaking out against Australia’s bid to host COP31, scheduled for 2026. Pip Hinman reports.
Indonesian security forces violently cracked down on a peaceful West Papuan National Congress (KNPB) demonstration on July 12, called to show support for West Papua's application to become a full member of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), reports Susan Price.
More than 500 people were arrested in West Papua on December 18 during self-determination protests that Free West Papua said were demanding the United Liberation Movement for West Papua be granted full membership of the Melanesian Spearhead Group.
About 50 people rallied on October 2 in a show of solidarity with the peoples of West Papua, and to protest the ongoing genocide and dispossession that has been carried out by a rapacious Indonesian state against the Indigenous population since the 1960s.
After some spirited speeches, including by members of the small local West Papuan community in exile, the rally set off for a short march from Town Hall to the New South Wales Parliament.
The rally also expressed its support for:
Marchers in Honiara in support of West Papua’s bid to join the MSG, June 19.
The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) granted the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) observer membership during a summit meeting in Honiara on June 26. It also upgraded Indonesia’s membership from observer to associate.
On February 4 a coalition uniting the resistance of Indonesian-occupied West Papua submitted an application to join the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).