Indonesian Rights Body Seeks Government Action on Papua Violence

Jakarta, September 11, 2026 — The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has formally requested that the presidential office coordinate a comprehensive government response to the escalating security situation in Papua. During a meeting held at the Bina Graha KSP Building on Thursday, commission officials briefed the Presidential Chief of Staff on the intensification of armed clashes and the resulting humanitarian strain on local communities. The commission emphasized that current security measures are insufficient to protect civilian lives or address the growing needs of displaced populations.

According to records compiled by Komnas HAM’s Papua team, the first half of 2026 has seen a significant rise in violent incidents. The commission documented 42 armed clashes that resulted in 59 deaths and 50 injuries. These figures continue a troubling trend from the previous year, when the body recorded 97 similar incidents leading to 119 fatalities. Beyond the immediate toll on life, the sustained violence has triggered widespread displacement, forcing many residents to abandon their homes and seek refuge in temporary shelters or neighboring regions.

Commission Calls for Inter-Agency Coordination

Commissioner Atnike Nova Sigiro stated that the commission is urging the government to convene key state institutions to address the crisis holistically. The proposed coordination body would include the Indonesian National Armed Forces, the National Police, and several civilian ministries responsible for health, social affairs, education, and housing. This multi-sectoral approach aims to ensure that policy responses are not limited to security operations but also address the fundamental rights of those affected by the conflict.

Sigiro highlighted that displaced persons require immediate access to adequate housing, healthcare, and education. By involving these specific ministries, the commission seeks to bridge the gap between emergency response and long-term social support. The goal is to create a unified framework that respects human rights standards while managing the complex logistical challenges of providing essential services in conflict-affected areas.

Presidential Staff Promises Coordination Meeting

Presidential Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman responded to the commission’s request by confirming that the KSP will host a coordination meeting. According to Abdurachman, the session will invite relevant ministries and agencies to discuss next steps. He also noted that regional administrations at both the provincial and regency levels will be included in the discussions to ensure that local realities are reflected in national policy decisions.

Humanitarian Impact Drives Policy Focus

The push for a coordinated government response comes amid reports of increasing instability in the region. The commission’s data underscores the human cost of the ongoing conflict, with dozens of civilians killed and hundreds of families uprooted from their communities. As the government prepares for the upcoming coordination talks, the central question remains how effectively the state can balance security imperatives with its obligation to protect the rights and well-being of its citizens in Papua.