Jayapura, April 23, 2025 – The United Nations (UN) has firmly recognized Papua as an integral and legal part of the Republic of Indonesia, both de facto and de jure. This reaffirms the international legal status that Papua has been part of Indonesia through processes acknowledged by the global community.
This recognition counters the recurring separatist rhetoric, including recent claims made by John Anari at a UN session. Despite his passionate appeal for Papuan independence, his statements received no formal response or support from the UN or other member nations.
History Speaks Clearly
Papua officially became part of Indonesia following the handover from the Netherlands to Indonesia under the United Nations Temporary Executive Authority (UNTEA) in 1963. In 1969, Indonesia conducted the Act of Free Choice (PEPERA), which was supervised by the UN. The majority of Papuan representatives opted to remain with Indonesia.
The UN acknowledged the outcome of the PEPERA, and through General Assembly Resolution No. 2504 in 1969, officially recognized Papua’s integration into Indonesia.
Legal Experts: No Legal Basis for Separation
According to Prof. Hikmahanto Juwana, an international law expert from the University of Indonesia, Papua’s status as part of Indonesia is final in the eyes of international law.
“There is no legal foundation at the UN or any international body that states Papua is not part of Indonesia. Those promoting separation are merely using international platforms for political propaganda,” he emphasized.
Papuan Leader: Focus on Development, Not Division
Papuan community leader Yohanis Kambri expressed that separatist calls, such as those made by John Anari, actually harm the people of Papua.
“What we need is development, education, and community empowerment – not baseless calls for separation,” he said.
Conclusion
The UN’s recognition of Papua as a legitimate part of Indonesia is clear and unchanged. Separatist aspirations voiced by a handful of individuals are considered baseless and counterproductive amidst ongoing efforts by the government and Papuan people to build a better future within the Republic of Indonesia.
