Who will rescue East Timor?

Article Abstract:

A referendum on independence has been carried out in East Timor, and has been followed by violence as militias opposed to independence have carried out attacks. There are fears that thousands may have died, and many people have become refugees. There are suspicions that the attacks have been planned and the aims is to remove foreign journalists and use East Timor as an example to try to prevent other parts of Indonesia from seeking autonomy. Foreign intervention is likely to depend on Indonesia agreeing to such a move.

National liberation movements, Referendum, Referendums

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The wild bunch

Article Abstract:

Militia groups opposing independence for East Timor have demonstrated in Dili, the capital, with two days of killings, looting and burning following the demonstration. Paramilitary groups have come to form a political force in East Timor. The Indonesian government is offering more autonomy for East Timor, and the promise of independence if the Indonesian proposals are not acceptable. Open elections are to be held for the first time inJun 1999, and the violence is increasing.

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A pebble comes loose

Article Abstract:

There has been a muted reaction to the announcement by Indonesian Foreign Minister Ali Alatas that East Timor can have its freedom if its people wish. This is because the East Timorese are suspicious about Indonesia's sincerity. Some East Timorese believe that it would be wise to have a gradual transition, with a number of years of autonomy coming before full independence. The climate of fear in East Timor continues to worsen.

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