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“I hope that others will follow your lead, put aside their differences, and consolidate their efforts for justice for the Papuan people,” said Prove, noting that “The World Council of Churches has long accompanied the churches and people of Papua in the search a just and sustainable peace in Tanah Papua.”
Prove offered a reflection on recent accomplishments and challenges related to peace efforts in Papua, and described how the WCC continues to work with churches and other counterparts in Papua, as well as with a network of international partners, to try to shine a light on the humanitarian and human rights crisis in the region.
“Among other things, we continue to advocate for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit the territory, and for the Indonesian Government to allow unrestricted access for international humanitarian organizations, journalists and human rights monitors,” Prove said. “All this work by the WCC and your international partners is founded on the continuing witness and ministry of the churches of Tanah Papua, as guardians of the faith and culture of the people, and as voices for all the voiceless Papuan people.”
Prove assured the Papuan people of the accompaniment from the WCC. “I warmly encourage you to speak up, loudly and continuously, for justice for your people, and for protection of your environment, your culture and your faith. The World Council of Churches will always be ready to amplify your voices in the international arena, and to spread your message to the world,” he said.
Church leaders in Papua: “the current situation is a human tragedy” (WCC news release, 04 May 2023)
