(New York, April 23, 2003) -- An upsurge in rights abuses threatens the ceasefire in Aceh, Human Rights Watch said today. In an open letter sent to the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM), Human Rights Watch urged both sides to reconvene negotiations without delay.
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Peace talks need to resume immediately. If the cease-fire collapses now, both sides may lose the last opportunity to ensure continued international support for the peace process.
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Human Rights Watch expressed particular concern about recent extra-judicial killings, forced disappearances and threats against civilians, human rights defenders and international cease-fire monitors in the province.
In letters to Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri and GAM leader Hasan di Tiro, Human Rights Watch reminded both sides of their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and non-combatants. Human Rights Watch also warned that a return to full-scale hostilities between Indonesian security forces and GAM would only result in increased civilian casualties, internal displacement, and widespread destruction.
An increase in violence during the last two weeks in the war-torn province has jeopardized the fragile ceasefire, which has been in place since a December 9, 2002 signing of a Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the Government of Indonesia and GAM.
Peace negotiations are scheduled to resume on April 25, 2003, although neither side has yet agreed on a location.
