Amnesty International calls for justice for victims of human rights violations during the Indonesian occupation of Timor-Leste as the UN Security Council plans to withdraw its peacekeeping mission. Despite widespread atrocities, no perpetrators have been held accountable. Human rights advocates stress the need for ongoing international focus on delivering justice for these crimes against humanity.
Amnesty International has articulated the pressing need for accountability regarding atrocities committed during the Indonesian occupation of Timor-Leste (1975-1999), as the UN Security Council convenes in New York to finalize the withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping mission. Throughout this period, heinous violations such as unlawful killings, enforced disappearances, rape, sexual violence, and torture were perpetrated by Indonesian security forces and their affiliates, particularly during the tumultuous 1999 independence referendum. Despite these actions constituting crimes against humanity, no individuals have been held accountable in either Indonesia or Timor-Leste. Isabelle Arradon, Amnesty International’s Asia-Pacific Deputy Director, emphasized that the exit of the UN should not absolve the international community of its responsibility to deliver justice for victims of such horrific crimes. The UN Security Council’s meeting on November 12 is particularly significant, as it coincides with the anniversary of the Santa Cruz massacre, where Indonesian troops killed numerous peaceful demonstrators in Dili. Arradon stated, “The Santa Cruz massacre was a watershed moment in the Timorese struggle for independence that highlighted the brutality of the Indonesian forces. The blatant lack of accountability for these killings is shocking.” Despite over 300 indictments for crimes against humanity, the Indonesian government has failed to cooperate with justice initiatives, and those tried in Jakarta for crimes committed during the conflict were ultimately acquitted. Arradon urged that, “The UN must clearly state that there will be no impunity for crimes against humanity and gross human rights violations committed during the Indonesian occupation and in the context of the Timorese independence referendum in 1999.” She further insisted that ensuring justice for these serious crimes must remain a priority on the UN Security Council agenda, even after the peacekeeping mission concludes. In this light, a collaborative statement by Amnesty International and the Timor-Leste National Alliance for an International Tribunal emphasizes the necessity of addressing the pervasive impunity facing victims and survivors in Timor-Leste. It is imperative for the global community to advocate for accountability and justice for the victims of the Indonesian occupation to honor their sacrifices and ensure that such violations are not repeated.
The struggle for independence in Timor-Leste from Indonesia, which lasted from 1975 to 1999, is marked by severe human rights violations committed by Indonesian security forces. After gaining autonomy, the demand for justice for these atrocities has remained critical, especially as the UN peacekeeping mission is set to withdraw. The international community, particularly through institutions such as Amnesty International, continues to advocate for accountability for crimes against humanity that occurred during this period, reinforcing the importance of not letting the withdrawal lead to impunity for past offenses.
In summary, the call for justice in Timor-Leste remains a crucial issue, particularly as the UN prepares to withdraw its peacekeeping forces. The lack of accountability for human rights abuses during the Indonesian occupation must not be overlooked, and it is vital for the international community to uphold their commitment to delivering justice. The ongoing efforts of organizations like Amnesty International highlight the need for continued awareness and action against impunity in this region.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
