The Shifting Power Dynamics Between Indonesia and West Papua in Global Discourse : Narratives in the 50s versus Now

Abstract: This Study is concerned with the WP-Indonesia conflict and the development of its narrative since 1949 as well as the shifting in power dynamics. It reveals that the past decades have not changed the essential power dynamic of Indonesia holding the main power by portraying itself as the “protector,” while WP describes them as a “colonising power”. Nevertheless, a slow trend has been detected as the Papuan narrative shifts towards WP presenting independent ways of governing to the global community, portraying itself as being on the same level as other sovereign states. Further research could investigate the differences in national versus international narratives and their influence on public opinion. The narratives are being traced using Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and framing theory by Robert Entman. Combining these frameworks, the narratives are analysed by focusing on the presented issue, cause, moral judgement, suggested resolutions and portrayed power imbalances. Moreover, the data that are being used involve public statements by the political elite of each party.