Demonstration of concern for Aceh on Monday 26 May 5-6 pm outside Indonesian Embassy

"Let's not repeat the mistakes of the past" - Amnesty International members demonstrate concern for Aceh on Monday 26 May 5-6 pm outside Indonesian Embassy

Amnesty International members and others will be demonstrating their concern for the people of Aceh, outside the Indonesian Embassy in Wellington on Monday 26 May between 5-6pm.

With the names of "disappeared" or killed human rights defenders, activists and ordinary citizens of Aceh written across the palms of their hands, people will silently demonstrate their fear that the human rights of Acehnese are at serious risk in this latest military campaign.

A statement containing the names of over 100 Acehnese people who have "disappeared" or been killed and been the subject of Amnesty International members' campaigning in the last 5 years will be delivered to the Embassy, with a request for more information. The statement will also contain a ten point appeal to the Indonesian Government to condemn, prevent and investigate human rights violations, and ensure that those found to be responsible for human rights violations be brought to justice.

Background information

Amnesty International is calling on both the Indonesian Government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) to take concrete measures to protect civilians, who have figured overwhelmingly in the estimated 10,000 deaths during the past 14 years.

Amnesty International takes no position on issues of sovereignty, independence or autonomy but is solely concerned that the rights of Indonesian citizens under international human rights and humanitarian law are respected.

For a copy of Amnesty's appeal for the people of Aceh, and the AI report Indonesia: Protecting rights in Nanggroe Aceh Darussalem during the military emergency please visit http://www.amnesty.org.nz

The Indonesian Embassy is located at 70 Glen Road, off Upland Road, Kelburn, Wellington.

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