Post-conflict Reconciliation in Aceh, Indonesia: Perspectives from the Victims

Abstract

This field research using participant observation critically analyzed the post-war reconciliation between Aceh Province and the Indonesian Government. Special attention was paid to the violent incidents at Rumoh Geudong, Krueng Arakundoe, and Jambo Keupok. Besides, in-depth interviews with 16 informants who were engaged directly and indirectly on the problems to collect the data, followed by employing library research to sight the findings. The peace agreement was concluded by parties who hated each other. Contrarily, the government’s function as the developer of the post-understanding process was not shown substantially. This has further enhanced the new forms of violence carried out after the previous violence. This meant nothing to the power of peace itself. The reconciliation was not substantially successful but failed. The absence of which had an impact on the existence of war victims, particularly in rebuilding their psychological conditions. Human values during the 14 years of peace were not programmed in priority at all, which generated extensive sustainable peace. The collapse of the state’s responsibility to unravel all cases of dehumanization had an impact on the increasingly dominating pragmatic value, meaning that the value of the existence of war victims was minimal, even closer to nothing.

Strengthening Reintegration through Social Capital: Learning from Aceh, Indonesia

“…As per the research findings, local wisdom values serve as the cornerstone for the actual integration of former GAM combatants and civil society. The collaborative economic success driven by local wisdom is a vital tool in mending previous social ruptures and constructing a brighter future for Aceh through sustainable peace (Manan et al, 2021).…”

Uncovering the Challenges of Sustainable Development in North Aceh: A Policy Analysis of Special Transfer Funds

“…Policy impact analysis will use a retrospective or policy evaluation model [38]. Specifically, the following research questions will be addressed: (1) What are the main issues in special transfer fund management? (Agenda setting), (2) How does the Aceh government regulate the management policy?…”

“…A protracted conflict in Aceh between 1976-2004 brought the region to the brink of poverty and suffering due to war violence [1]. The Helsinki MoU symbolized peace and a means to overcoming the problems caused by the conflict [2].…”

Transformation of Traditional Islamic Education: Dayah as a Modern Educational Institution in Post-Conflict Aceh

“…The post-conflict reconciliation process in Aceh has faced challenges and limitations. The return of rights supported by the mediator was a potential way for the province to rise from the ashes of conflict, but the illiberal peacemaker did not take advantage of the opportunity that had been legalized (Manan et al, 2021). As a result, many social cases occur due to incompetent ways in overcoming the reconciliation.…”

“…In this context, the revitalization of Islamic education within the Dayah institutions can serve as a means to promote social transformation, foster resilience, and promote peace (Ali Buto & Hafifuddin, 2020;Nikmatullah et al, 2023). Research conducted by Manan et al, (2021) resulted in a recommendation on the importance of peace education. However, further research is needed to address the specific aspects of the social and psychological conditions, as well as the needs of students as victims of conflict, to ensure that the educational revitalization efforts are tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities in the post-conflict environment.…”