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Failure to end the conflict in Papua could cause a spiral of deadly violence that would destabilize Indonesia.Nobody wants an escalation of conflict in Papua to result in a military crackdown and demand for international humanitarian intervention.

To increase incentives for Jakarta and Papua, the Commission highlights the history of close cooperation between international organizations and Indonesian authorities.The Commission proposes that the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launch a “Preventive Development Program.” New grants for activities linking traditional development with conflict prevention would be raised via the World Bank Consultative Group on Indonesia (CGI). Jakarta would appoint a “Papua Coordinator” to work with national experts and international specialists participating in an “Advisory Group for Special Autonomy” and a “Papua Professional Corps” to build local capacity for effective, transparent, and accountable self-governance.

Ultimately, responsibility for conflict prevention rests with Indonesia’s leaders and Papuan authorities. We hope that the Commission’s involvement provides new ideas advancing shared interests and common purposes.

There are many who deserve much thanks. The Commission has been ably stewarded by its chairman, Admiral Dennis C. Blair. Denny’s judicious leadership and deep knowledge of Southeast Asia helped the Commission thread the needle in determining constructive recommendations in the interests of all.We greatly appreciate General John W. Vessey, whose near decade-long involvement in the CPA has been essential to its success. A great deal of the credit for the Commission rests with David L. Phillips, whose tireless work was indispensable. As the CPA’s deputy director, David brings enthusiasm and energy to all of the CPA’s endeavors.We are also most grateful to the Hewlett Foundation for its generous support.