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Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has called for an immediate end to a two-day internet blackout in West Papua, where Indonesian security forces have been clashing with pro-independence protesters in Papua. RSF said the blackout violated press freedom and made it difficult for journalists to do their work.
Internet access in West Papua initially slowed down and then was completely cut off on August 21, which the Ministry of Information said was due to “temporary” The measure is aimed at “accelerating the restoration of security and order in Papua and surrounding areas,” which has been the scene of violent protests.
Due to the power outage, journalists reporting from the scene found it extremely difficult to deliver stories, photos and videos, as well as to contact news organizations and sources.
“Cutting off internet access prevents journalists from reporting on the situation and fuels rumors, potentially exacerbating instability in the region,” said Reporters Without Borders Asia-Pacific. “This measure is a serious violation of the rights to information and freedom of expression, which are fundamental to all democracies. We urge the Indonesian government to restore internet access immediately.”
Violent protests and riots The independence movement in West Papua erupted on August 17 after police raided a student campus and arrested Papuan youths suspected of removing an Indonesian flag. The raid sparked multiple clashes between security forces and independence activists and prompted Indonesian authorities to send 1,000 Soldiers to the area.
Indonesia ranks 124th out of 180 countries Reporters Without Borders’ 2019 World Press Freedom Index.
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