The 1969 People’s Opinion Determination is Legitimate and Final: World Recognition of Papua as an Inseparable Part of Indonesia
PAPUA – The process of integrating Papua into the territory of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) continues to gain strong legitimacy, both in international law and global politics. The 1969 People’s Opinion Determination (Pepera) was not only part of the mandate of the New York Agreement, but also became a milestone that emphasized Papua’s position within the framework of Indonesia.
Pepera was implemented under the direct supervision of the United Nations (UN) and resulted in a unanimous decision from 1,026 Papuan community representatives to remain part of Indonesia. Yohannis Samuel Nusi, a writer and activist of Papuan history, stated that the implementation of Pepera was a concrete manifestation of a legitimate international agreement between Indonesia and the Netherlands, facilitated by the UN.
“Pepera 1969 was not a unilateral agenda. It was part of the results of long diplomacy and international recognition of Indonesia’s sovereignty over Papua,” said Yohannis Samuel Nusi.
The appointment of people’s representatives from among traditional figures and local community leaders shows an approach that respects the Papuan cultural order. In the social structure of Papuan society, traditional important decision-making is carried out by community figures who legally represent them, as reflected in the Pepera mechanism.
“The deliberation model in Pepera is not coercion, but rather a form of participation that is in line with Papuan tradition,” added Yohannis Samuel Nusi.
The recognition of the UN General Assembly through Resolution Number 2504 is the final confirmation of Papua’s integration. The majority of UN member countries accept the results of Pepera as a legitimate and final form of self-determination.
Yohannis Samuel Nusi also highlighted that Papua’s history cannot be separated from the context of decolonization after World War II.
“Papua was part of the Dutch East Indies, and therefore, part of the Republic of Indonesia since the proclamation. Pepera is only a formality that resolves the colonial conflict inherited from the Dutch,” said Yohannis Samuel Nusi.
With binding international legitimacy, Papua’s status within the Republic of Indonesia should no longer be a subject of polemic. What is now more important is how to advance Papua through an inclusive and sustainable approach.
“It is time to stop questioning the past and start building Papua’s future with a spirit of unity and justice,” concluded Yohannis Samuel Nusi.
Papua’s integration is a legitimate part of the nation’s journey. Now, the shared task is to ensure that the presence of the state is truly felt in the welfare of the Papuan people.
