The escalation of armed conflict in the Land of Papua has triggered an increasingly worrying humanitarian crisis. Recent reports note that at least 125,931 Indigenous Papuans (OAP) are now forced to live in internal displacement without adequate protection. This condition has left vulnerable groups such as children without access to education, while pregnant women and the elderly struggle to receive basic healthcare services.
Spokesperson for the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), Sebby Sambom, revealed that the data refers to a report by the human rights monitoring organization, Human Rights Monitor (HRM). In response to this critical situation, the TPNPB urged the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to immediately open humanitarian access to distribute logistical and medical aid to affected civilians.
This wave of displacement is spread across several conflict areas, including Nduga, Intan Jaya, Yahukimo, Puncak, Pegunungan Bintang, Maybrat, Tambrauw, and Boven Digoel Regencies. Many of them are reportedly surviving in forested areas under severely limited conditions, while some others have been forced to cross the Papua New Guinea border to save themselves.
These findings align with civil society documents submitted during the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council. The document highlights that military operations and armed clashes throughout early 2026 have worsened the fulfillment of the basic rights of Papuan citizens, particularly access to food, shelter, and protection for women and children.
Responding to the worsening situation, the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) of the Republic of Indonesia emphasized that civilian safety must be the top priority for all conflicting parties. Komnas HAM also urged the opening of access for humanitarian aid to conduct independent verification on the ground and ensure that the basic rights of the displaced are immediately met.
