The East Timor and Indonesia Action Network (ETAN) commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Santa Cruz massacre, urging accountability for the human rights crimes committed during Indonesia’s occupation of Timor-Leste. Despite the independence of Timor-Leste in 2002, victims’ families continue to seek justice and closure as impunity persists for the perpetrators of historical atrocities. ETAN calls on the international community to address this legacy of violence and advocate for human rights in the region.
On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Santa Cruz massacre, the East Timor and Indonesia Action Network (ETAN) implores the international community to take decisive action against the prevailing impunity for human rights violations that occurred during the Indonesian occupation of Timor-Leste. “The Santa Cruz massacre is among the most notorious crimes committed by Indonesia during its illegal occupation of Timor-Leste and has waited too long for justice,” stated John M. Miller, the National Coordinator of ETAN. He emphasized the necessity for accountability regarding the individuals responsible for the massacre and other atrocities perpetrated during this period. On November 12, 1991, Indonesian troops, armed by the United States, confronted peaceful demonstrators advocating for self-determination. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of over 271 East Timorese individuals, with an additional number unaccounted for and presumed deceased. The brutality witnessed during the massacre marked a significant moment in Timor-Leste’s quest for liberation, with foreign journalists documenting the events and providing evidence against Indonesian propaganda. The occupation, which lasted more than two decades, was characterized by extensive human rights abuses, leading to the estimated loss of 184,000 Timorese lives and numerous cases of torture, sexual violence, and forced displacement. Timor-Leste attained independence in 2002, yet citizens continue to seek closure concerning the fate of their missing relatives. John M. Miller remarked, “The East Timorese people still need to know where the bodies of their relatives and friends are. Impunity for decades of systematic Indonesian military and police atrocities prevents both Timor-Leste and Indonesia from respecting human rights and consolidating the rule of law.” In recent developments, Indonesia has experienced increased human rights violations, including intensified military operations in West Papua and the ongoing harassment of human rights defenders. Miller asserted that the complicity of nations such as the United States, Britain, and Australia, which provided support during the Suharto regime, has hindered meaningful accountability efforts for these historical crimes. In light of these ongoing challenges, ETAN urges the restoration of justice for the victims of the Santa Cruz massacre and all other human rights violations committed during the occupation, underlining that the quest for justice is timeless.
The Santa Cruz massacre serves as a crucial point of reference in the history of Timor-Leste’s struggle for independence from Indonesian rule. Occurring on November 12, 1991, this tragic event saw peaceful demonstrators advocating for their rights brutally attacked by Indonesian military forces, resulting in substantial loss of life and a lasting impact on the collective memory of the East Timorese people. The massacre not only highlighted the severity of human rights abuses during Indonesia’s illegal occupation but also galvanized international support for East Timor’s self-determination. Despite gaining independence in 2002, issues of accountability and justice for historical atrocities remain pressing concerns, as many perpetrators continue to evade justice, and victims’ families seek closure regarding their lost loved ones. The enduring legacy of foreign complicity and the ongoing struggle for human rights in the region further complicate efforts for genuine accountability, underscoring the significance of ongoing advocacy against impunity.
In conclusion, the 30th anniversary of the Santa Cruz massacre highlights the urgent need for accountability and justice for the numerous human rights violations committed during Indonesia’s occupation of Timor-Leste. Key figures, including John M. Miller of ETAN, stress the importance of addressing these historical events, as the quest for truth and reconciliation remains paramount for both Timor-Leste and Indonesia. The international community’s involvement is essential to confront the long-standing impunity that persists for those responsible, as well as to address the systemic human rights violations occurring today. As ETAN proclaims, it is never too late to demand justice for the victims and their families impacted by these grievous crimes.
Original Source: www.genocidewatch.com
