2. Political Aspects: Root Causes of Generational Conflict and Violence
Four dimensions of destructive politics are systematically described:
First, the unresolved emotional and political integration of Papua into Indonesia.
Second, unresolved human rights violations that have led to collective trauma and intergenerational resentment.
Third, political and economic marginalization, particularly land dispossession, natural resource exploitation, and the limited representation of OAP in development policy.
Fourth, local politics often characterized by conflicts of interest and inter-ethnic frictions, further worsening local governance.
The article also highlights that the customary "fine-paying" tradition in resolving conflicts has, in the long run, hindered formal legal enforcement and social rationalization. Rather than creating deterrence, it reinforces the cycle of conflict and avoidance of positive law.
3. Identity Politics and Xenophobia
The increasing xenophobia or distrust toward outsiders in Papua is another critical point. While it is a defensive reaction to external dominance, in practice it creates new social vulnerabilities and injustices toward non-OAP groups. A concrete example, such as the exclusive control over motorbike taxi (ojek) services by OAP in Wamena, illustrates how local politics and electoral interests can favor exclusivity over social justice.
4. Economic Aspects: Misdirected Interventions and Cultural Distortion
On the economic front, the author criticizes development approaches that rely heavily on large-scale financial transfers---such as cash aid and village funds---without considering cultural dimensions or local preparedness. This leads to dependency, weakens the work ethic, and promotes a consumptive lifestyle among OAP.
