Economist Billy Mambrasar: Economic injustice is the root of the Papuan conflict

JAKARTA - Economist and public policy researcher from Papua Billy Mambrasar assessed that economic instability and injustice are one of the root causes of the prolonged conflict in Papua.

This was conveyed by Billy when meeting with the leadership of the United Nations (UN) at the United Nations (UN) office in Jakarta.

During the meeting, Billy discussed with the Regional Director for Asia-Pacific United Nations David McLachlan-Karr and the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Indonesia Gita Sabharwal.

Billy said the long-standing economic inequality had triggered a sense of injustice among the local community, especially the Papuan Indigenous People (OAP).

"If we want to resolve the Papua conflict sustainably, we must start from the root of the problem, namely economic injustice. Stability can only be achieved if the community feels that they have fair access to development," said Billy.

He assessed that development in Papua needs to be supported by a more comprehensive database on the social, economic, and demographic conditions of the local community.

According to him, more accurate data collection on the Papuan indigenous people is the key to formulating targeted development policies.

In addition, Billy emphasized that development programs in Papua must actively involve local communities so that they are not only top-down.

During the discussion, Billy also encouraged an economic development model that is oriented towards empowering the community, especially the younger generation, compared to the extractive economic approach that has been dominant so far.

One of the models he encouraged was the development of agroforestry or integrated farming systems which were considered capable of opening economic opportunities for local farmers and ranchers while maintaining environmental sustainability.

According to Billy, this model can also support various government priority programs, such as strengthening village cooperatives and the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program which requires a food supply chain from the region.

"The approach to development based on community empowerment will create a more inclusive and sustainable economy in Papua," said Billy.

On this occasion, Billy also highlighted the low participation of the younger generation in politics due to the high cost of politics in legislative elections and regional head elections.

He assessed that this condition makes many young people prefer to contribute through other channels such as entrepreneurship, technological innovation, and social movements.