Pluralism, Tolerance and Stability in West Papua

Pluralism, tolerance, peace and security in interactions among tribes of Papuans and between Papuans and other ethnic groups is under democratic umbrella. Indonesian is a pluralistic society; that is many differences within one Indonesia. All ethnic groups can live peacefully and interact each other within the spirit of pluralism. It is very similar to the United States society, but there is one big problem of unequal economic distribution.

In autonomy policies, opportunities and access to public services were given to Papuans and other ethnic groups equally. West Papua has been under special status, with special treatments; - meaning that an increased of budget; a better education, a better sosial and health facilities, freedom of speech, a higher technology and improvement of infrastructure have been normal.

However, the kidnapping and murder of Papuan people, leaders and activists were carried out by the OPM. These have frightened most of indigenous Papuans human beings in their own lands.

This special autonomy package is in fact strengthening the direction of development by giving more power to local Papuans, including all ethnic groups live in West Papua. Consequently, all ethnic groups should work hard together to maintain a high economic growth and a peaceful communication.

Again, the political and economic opportunist work closely with OPM to declare War against the will of Papuan. This clearly complicates the problem. Thus, conflicts were pushed by OPM into religious and ethic differences, so OPM is the one who doesn't have the mentality of pluralism and tolerance. OPM is the one who shake the stability of West Papua by terror. At the same time, the autonomy policy is also creating an open wide oppotunity for job creation in many field.

As a response to Special Autonomy (SA), OPM create an issue of religious war; "Indonesian Muslims fighting against Papuan separatists and Christians". It is so crazy and cruel. OPM groups are standing behind the will of political and economic opportunist abroad, especially di Australia and UK.

Another threat to pluralism in West Papua is the intimidation of OPM against against different tribal groups in West Papua, including migrants and foreign workers. OPM create many militia groups of pro-independence to support the movement of TPN/OPM. The groups and conflicts are clearly simple, criminals against West Papuan society.

Where should Papuans go to ask for help? Can multiculturalism, multiethnic or pluralism or tolerance exist in such circumstances?