August 24, 2026 | 08:08 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - High unemployment rates and limited access to resources may trigger instability in Papua, said Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai, after his working visit to Central Papua Province.
In Jakarta on Monday, Pigai highlighted the high tension among civil society movements in Papua amidst the ongoing security situation and armed conflict.
"From what I've seen, and what Papuans have told me, they feel like they're lacking power, whether in politics, government, or the business landscape," Pigai said, outlining his findings.
According to Pigai, limited employment opportunities and feelings of marginalization can fuel social frustration.
This situation has the potential to fuel various protest movements from civil society groups, especially among the unemployed.
Unemployment, therefore, cannot be viewed as a single economic issue, since it impacts regional and national stability.
According to Pigai, the government must swiftly address the issue of unequal access to employment through spot-on policies.
"High unemployment rates in Papua can have the worst impact on regional instability and could disrupt national stability," he said.
Pigai thus requested the ministries and government institutions to prioritize economic empowerment programs that provide tangible benefits to indigenous Papuans.
According to Pigai, opening economic access and creating jobs for local communities is a crucial step to reduce potential social frustration while maintaining security and stability nationwide and in Papua.
He emphasized that these efforts must be taken seriously by ensuring that indigenous Papuans have broader opportunities to participate in politics, government, and the business world.
Read: Indonesia's Human Rights Minister Says Papuans Can Demand Justice but Not Independence
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