Petrova Olga

Secession in Indonesia (example of East Timor)

ЮГО-ВОСТОЧНАЯ АЗИЯ: АКТУАЛЬНЫЕ ПРОБЛЕМЫ РАЗВИТИЯ, 2018, №3(40), 191-205

 
Annotation: The basis of separatism, as a form of separation of territory and the formation of a new state, is usually based on social or political conflicts, in which the minority receives a share of power and material wealth that does not correspond to its aspirations. Where economic inequalities overlap with territorial boundaries, some form of nationalist movement may arise. The reason for the failure of negotiations on the peaceful transformation of the conflict lies in the irreconcilability of contradictions. Indonesia made the main mistake, becoming not a liberator, but an invader of the territory of East Timor. The opposition saw the only possible resolution of the conflict - secession, while the leadership of Indonesia completely excluded it. The loss of East Timor was in fact a net gain for Indonesia, regardless of whether it recognized by the government, since only it could contribute to two transformations - from authoritarian rule and from the economic downturn.

Keywords: Indonesia, East Timor, secession, conflict, struggle for independence