By Zach Danevicz

In response to Indonesia’s efforts to gain independence, the Commission of Inquiry (COI) is meeting with Indonesian and Dutch forces to discuss the tension on the Indonesian archipelago. 

The Indonesian islands have been under Dutch control since the early 19th century. World War II brought the rise and fall of Japanese control between 1942 and 1945, where the islands then fell back to the Netherlands control. Indonesia disagrees with this outcome and is actively attempting to remove themselves from colonial rule. The Renville Agreement of 17 January 1948 created a ceasefire allowing the Dutch to continue its areas of control within Indonesia until a vote for independence occurs.

The Security Council questions if the ceasefire in place is actively working. Aboard the USS Renville, the COI is actively off the shores of Indonesia to make certain ceasefire lines are being adhered to and to peacefully resolve the dispute. The already established Van Mook Lines from the Dutch extend farther than previously agreed on, creating disputed zones between troops and citizens of both Dutch and Indonesian origin. 

On 25 January 1948, the COI met with a Party to the Dispute representing Indonesia. They shared that the Netherlands are violating the Renville agreement and that some Dutch troops are breaching the ceasefire lines and causing a hostile environment. “We want the Dutch to understand that the good faith we may have had will not stand.” The Party to the Dispute shared its hopes to withhold and strengthen ceasefire agreements and continue the process of removing colonial ties. 
A Party to the Dispute representing the Netherlands met with the COI on 5 March 1948. They refute the claims of violating any agreement or inclination of any intimidation. Although the voting process began only a week after the Renville agreement was signed, the Dutch believe the diplomatic process was followed and thus stands. The Party to the Dispute said, “One Dutch death is one Dutch death too many.” The Netherlands indicated that as long as the conflict continues, their naval blockade will stay up and troops will continue protecting Dutch territory.

Discussion between the COI and diplomats will continue through the months.