Indonesia threatens to become engulfed by violence. Religion, nationalism and feelings of victimization have triggered conflict across the immense archipelago. Clashes between Muslims and Christians have prompted calls for an Islamic jihad, or holy war. Some fear the breakup of the world's fourth-most populous nation, one that sprawls across strategic shipping lanes. Yet, the Indonesian government seems incapable of stopping the conflagration. The paralysis must be overcome and the violence halted -- without resorting to the repression that has characterized previous efforts to combat such outbreaks.
The Indonesian government always argued that granting independence or autonomy to one of its restive provinces would inspire demands for equal treatment from others. That concern has been born out in the aftermath of East Timor's referendum and calamitous birth as an independent nation. Like-minded movements have become more powerful in the provinces of Aceh, the Malukus, Irian Jaya, Borneo and even Bali, the sun-dappled vacationer's paradise.
The violence began in Aceh, where Muslim militants, who enjoy popular support, are fighting for independence. Because the state is rich in oil and mineral reserves, the Jakarta government is reluctant to let it go. Fighting there has claimed at least 300 lives, but the actual number of casualties could be much higher. Indonesian President Abdurrahman Wahid has said that the province could hold a referendum on its future, but no sooner than three years from now. That satisfies neither militants who want freedom, nor Indonesian nationalists who will countenance no further dismembering of their country.