Pacific Island Nations Rally Behind West Papua in UN Human Rights Push

Pacific island nations are stepping up support for West Papua, calling for urgent action from the United Nations amid ongoing human rights violations in the Indonesian-controlled region.

A recent joint statement to the UN Human Rights Council from Vanuatu, Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, Nauru, and Sāmoa urged the international community to advocate for the displaced people of West Papua.

West Papua Action Aotearoa spokesperson Catherine Delahunty welcomed the move, especially Sāmoa’s support — the first time the country’s government has publicly backed West Papua’s struggle.

Delahunty described the situation as "very disturbing," citing a media blackout, forced displacement, and violent extraction of natural resources. She called out the lack of action from larger nations like New Zealand and Australia, urging them to follow the example of smaller Pacific nations.

"We particularly want to shout out to Sāmoa," Delahunty said. "They’ve never made public statements before. It’s great to see their government step up."

West Papua has been under Indonesian control since the controversial 1969 "Act of Free Choice," which has been widely criticized as manipulated. Human rights groups estimate more than 300,000 West Papuans have died in the conflict since Indonesia’s takeover.

The region remains heavily militarized, with pro-independence fighters intensifying attacks in recent years. Activists continue to push for a UN human rights commissioner to visit West Papua — a request repeatedly denied by Indonesia.

Delahunty said change must come from the Pacific region and within Indonesia itself, but she fears progress remains too slow.

Source: RNZ