Skirmishes between armed civilian factions. All have either recently taken place, or are presently taking place. Ambon is perhaps the most tragic example. Once known for its tradition of peaceful co-existence between Muslims and Christians, now Ambon is characterized by charred churches and mosques, fleeing residents, armed civilians, and a collapsing economy. Up to 200 inhabitants have been killed in the violence that has erupted since January.
Thousands are homeless.
The initial cause of the conflict is not clear, but social restraints and security forces have thus far proven unequal to the task of containing the spreading violence. Throughout Indonesia, security forces have been faced with constant street rallies and demonstrations. They have been forced to walk a precarious line between violent suppression and unresponsive inaction, and have erred in both directions. This in turn perpetuates the image of Indonesia as a major human rights violator, overshadowing the very significant progress that has otherwise been made on human rights issues. Given the inadequacy of police forces, ABRI will have to continue to play a major internal security role for the foreseeable future.