Analysis of Security Issues in the Resource-Rich Region of Papua, Indonesia

Abstract

Tanah Papua is a region with six provinces in eastern Indonesia that is very rich in natural resources such as gold, copper, natural gas, nickel, and vast tropical forests. However, this wealth is inversely proportional to the welfare of its people, who are still behind in terms of economy, health, and education. This study used a descriptive qualitative approach based on literature studies to analyze five dimensions of non-traditional security in Papua, namely human security, social security, environmental security, economic security, and health security. From the human security dimension, armed conflict between the authorities and separatist groups has caused many casualties and mass displacement, worsening the sense of security of civilians. Social security is also disrupted by transmigration, discrimination, and horizontal conflicts that trigger concerns about the loss of cultural identity and social cohesion. Meanwhile, environmental damage caused by large-scale mining and plantation activities has eliminated customary forests and damaged the ecosystem that supports the lives of local communities. In the economic sector, inequality is still evident, even though natural resources are abundant, poverty rates and prices of basic necessities remain high, especially in the interior. Indigenous peoples are more likely to become manual workers without certainty of welfare, while the main profits are enjoyed by large corporations. From a health perspective, Papua faces serious problems such as stunting, malaria, HIV/AIDS, and low immunization coverage, exacerbated by minimal access to basic health services. Through this comprehensive analysis, this study emphasizes that the security approach in Papua cannot only focus on the militaristic aspect. Instead, a development strategy and security policy that are inclusive, humane, and sustainable are needed so that Papua can escape the cycle of vulnerability towards justice and prosperity.