inp.polri.go.id - Nabire. Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has urged regional governments, communities, religious institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Central Papua to submit accurate refugee data so that the central government can promptly implement humanitarian measures.
Pigai made this statement during a working visit to gather public opinion at the Central Papua Provincial Legislative Council (DPRD) in Nabire on Monday (8/17/2026).
According to him, refugee data needs to clearly state the number, location, distribution, and condition of the people, along with supporting evidence, to provide a basis for government intervention.
"If a church is occupied, tell us which church. If an elementary school or community health center is occupied, identify the school and provide photos, attach all evidence," Pigai said.
He noted that information on the number of refugees in Papua is still varied and lacks a verifiable database.
He said this information comes from NGOs, churches, observers, and various community groups, with varying figures.
Pigai believes the central government has the capacity to address refugee issues, including through housing construction, resettlement planning, and providing livelihood security.
However, all of these policies require valid data as a basis for planning and aid distribution.
"The problem is, where's the data? NGOs say there are hundreds of thousands of refugees, however churches said otherwise. We need valid data. If I had the data, I could communicate it and send teams from all over the country," said Pigai.
He stated that the Ministry of Human Rights has coordinated with the Ministry of Social Affairs and related ministries to prepare response measures.
Therefore, Pigai requested that data collection be carried out in stages, involving communities, villages, sub-districts, local governments, and other stakeholders.
"The data must be proactive from the local community, then villages, sub-districts, local governments, and various stakeholders," he said.
Pigai said accurate data would enable the government to identify residents who need to be repatriated to their hometowns, reorganize their settlements, and receive targeted basic needs support.
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