Acheh-Sumatra National Liberation Front (ASNLF)
Many human rights organisations have also recommended prosecution of those responsible,
compensation for the victims, restoration of civilian institutions, ending the culture of impunity
within the military, a wholesale review of military law and education, and re-allocation of
resources between the central and provincial governments. But, most of the above
recommendations have not yet been addressed by the central government.
Relating to the economic issues, we want to express our concerns with regard to the inhibiting
development in the region. According to the Central Bureau for Statistics, Acheh's economic
growth was less than two percent during this year. It is far below the average Indonesian growth
rate of more than five percent. The unemployment rate was at nine percent, well above the
national average of six percent. The poverty rate was 18 percent in Acheh, well above the
national average of 12 percent in Indonesia. While Acheh one of the richest regions in the
archipelago, producing billions of barrels of oil, gas, etc. just for the benefit of Jakarta.
Ladies and gentlemen,
In finding a durable solution to the complexity of the problem, Indonesia should review its old
“divide and rule” policy towards Acheh, particularly with regard to fundamental freedoms such
as civil, political, economic, social rights, especially freedom of expression and the right to
self-determination of the people of Acheh.
The ASNLF call upon international communities, especially the EU and the UN, to closely
monitor the situation in Acheh and put pressure on Indonesia to end impunity by resolving
the past gross human rights violations during thirty-year armed conflicts.
Therefore, ASNLF endorses the forum recommendations of articles 26 (g) concerning the
promotion of employment via training, education as to ensure full recovery and protect minority
from further marginalisation. And article 32 (d) which says partly that “Organisations or
individuals responsible for human rights violations, including acts of discrimination, or neglect,
must be held accountable”.
Thank you for your attention.
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Acheh-Sumatra National Liberation Front (ASNLF)
PO Box 10 15 26
99805 Eisenach
Germany
Phone: +49 1577 3431 335
Fax : +49 6626 2610 103
E-mail : info@asnlf.org
Website : www.asnlf.org