West Papuans denied their stepping stone to international recognition

Papua New Guinea has blocked West Papuan attempts to gain observer status at the Melenesian Spearhead Group. Gaining observer status at a forum within their region was an important stepping stone for the West Papuan National Coalition for Liberation. The Coalition is struggling for international recognition of the plight of West Papuans- whom they claim are suffering under the repressive governance of Indonesia.

Speakers:

• Dr John Otto Ondawame- Vice Chairman of the West Papua National Coalition for Liberation