Assessing Pathways to Peace in West Papua: The Need for a Humanitarian Pause and Inclusive Dialogue

Abstract

Almost all Indonesian peace policies in Papua—ranging from Special Autonomy and regional expansion to accelerated development and security operations—have failed to produce sustainable peace. This article argues that the persistent dominance of a security-centered approach has reproduced cycles of political violence, while non-violent alternatives, such as a humanitarian pause and dialogue with Papuan political representatives, have been systematically marginalized. Drawing on peacebuilding and conflict transformation perspectives, the article examines the escalation of violence in Papua since 2018 and its humanitarian consequences for indigenous Papuans. It contends that a humanitarian pause is essential to address civilian suffering and displacement, and that a Jakarta–Papua dialogue is necessary to negotiate a legitimate and inclusive framework for Papua’s political future within Indonesia. The article concludes by highlighting dialogue-based peacebuilding as a critical policy alternative for resolving one of the most protracted conflicts in the Asia–Pacific region.