WEST PAPUA Meaning and
Definition
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West Papua, also known as Western New Guinea, is a region located in the eastern part of the island of New Guinea, which is divided between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. It covers the western half of the island and consists of two provinces within Indonesia, Papua and West Papua. West Papua is a geographically and culturally distinct region characterized by its vast rainforests, rugged mountains, and diverse indigenous population.
Historically, West Papua was colonized by the Dutch in the 19th century and remained under Dutch control until the early 1960s. Following a controversial plebiscite known as the Act of Free Choice in 1969, the region was integrated into Indonesia. However, the process was marred by allegations of coercion, and since then, there has been a pro-independence movement seeking self-determination for West Papua.
The region is known for its rich natural resources, including extensive mineral deposits and significant biodiversity. Nevertheless, socio-political challenges and human rights issues have hindered the development of the region and caused tensions between the indigenous population and the Indonesian government.
West Papua has become a focal point of international discourse due to longstanding conflicts, human rights concerns, and calls for independence. Various advocacy groups and indigenous leaders have been actively advocating for self-determination, seeking to raise awareness about the situation in the region and to promote dialogue and peaceful resolutions to the issues faced by West Papuans.
Etymology of WEST PAPUA
The word "West Papua" is derived from the geographical orientation and historical context of the region it refers to.
The term "Papua" is a name that originated from the Malay word "papuwah" meaning "frizzy hair". This term was initially used by the Portuguese in the 16th century when they encountered the indigenous people of the island of New Guinea, who had distinctively frizzy hair. Over time, the term "Papua" became commonly used to refer to the island and its inhabitants.
"West Papua" specifically refers to the western part of the island of New Guinea, which is split into two provinces: Papua and West Papua. The division occurred following the transfer of sovereignty of the region from the Netherlands to Indonesia in the 1960s. West Papua, previously known as West Irian or West New Guinea, gained its current name in the era of Indonesian administration.
