The stubborn East Timorese insistence on independence has inspired other remote areas of the archipelago state to rebellion. The United Nations and the entire international community have been badly hurt by the debacle in East Timor. Now UN employees have been killed and UN offices sacked by the militia forces. The international community has been made to look hapless against a ragtag challenge. The international community has been so silent about all that has happened in East Timor over the past 24 years, and so feeble, that it has a responsibility to act firmly now.
Many responses are available.
Indonesia's military is either covertly supporting the militiamen or has failed to oppose their rampage, violating many assurances. The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank are heavily involved in keeping the Indonesian economy afloat. Further tranches should be withheld until legitimate order is restored in East Timor. American political leaders, especially, should reflect on the larger lesson. Pinochet awaits justice in the British courts.