Indonesian colonization of West Papua vs French colonization of New Caledonia

"As long as the Melanesian peoples of Papua and Kanaky are colonized, Vanuatu will not be fully independent", said Rev. Walter Lini, the founding father of Vanuatu. (1942-1999)

To this day, West Papua is still a colony of Indonesia. But thanks to Walter Lini's legacy, the people of Vanuatu have always supported West Papua's struggle: this morning, in Port Vila, their flag flew at the same level as that of Vanuatu.

What about Kanaky? This archipelago in the South Pacific, known as New Caledonia, is also still a colony, but in a very different context: Kanaky's freedom fighters are battling against French domination. However, French rule is far more democratic and even more humane than Indonesian colonial rule.

Although the Indonesian constitution defends the value of freedom, as the preamble to the 1945 constitution states: "Freedom is the right of all nations and, consequently, all colonialism must be abolished...", the reality is different. "Unity in diversity", Indonesia's national motto, is merely rhetorical: the Morning Star flag, a symbol of Papuan identity, is banned, while ISIS and Taliban flags are allowed to fly at street rallies in Jakarta.

On the other hand, France, which has never renounced its hegemonic ambitions, has honored the Kanak people's demand for self-determination by organizing three referendums. The FLNKS, the Kanak pro-independence front, obtained equal status in negotiations with Paris. 

French President Emmanuel Macron, currently visiting New Caledonia, paid tribute to Jean-Marie Tjibaou, leader of the Kanak freedom fighters. His widow, Marie-Claude Tjibaou, was also awarded the title of Commander of the Legion of Honor. The question is whether an Indonesian president has honored Filep Karma, dubbed the Nelson Mandela of Papua. Sadly, no!

A dignified nation is one that values its humanitarian figures. Although France is still a colonial power, it is far more dignified than Indonesia. Even today, in the country billed as the third largest democracy, Papuan freedom fighters are regarded as bandits, foreign henchmen, separatists and even terrorists. The Indonesian colonial regime continues its military operations in West Papua.

Nevertheless, we Papuans remain determined to promote a peaceful struggle, in accordance with the culture and constitution of the nation of West Papua, which declared its independence on December 1, 1961. We live the teachings of Jesus Christ, the Lord in whom we believe. Our political vision is a compassionate one, recognizing the dignity and worth of all people.