West Papua

West Papua is a region located on the western half of New Guinea island, part of Indonesia since 1969. It is rich in natural resources like gold, copper, and forests, and is known for its diverse indigenous cultures and unique wildlife. Historically, it was a Dutch colony before Indonesia took control, leading to ongoing debates over independence and autonomy. Many West Papuans seek greater self-determination, citing issues of human rights and environmental concerns. The region remains politically sensitive, with tensions between local aspirations and national Indonesian governance.