Archive
Key Documents | Press and Public Information | Photogallery
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Mission Accomplished |
On 15 December 2006 the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) came to an end. All tasks assigned to AMM and as specified in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in Helsinki on 15 August 2005, have been completed. The peace in Aceh has been re-established and the peace process has become irreversible and self-sustaining. There is complete freedom of movement and speech in Aceh and on 11 December 2006 the province held its first direct and democratic local elections. The AMM was established on 15 September 2005 and its overall aim has been to monitor the implementation of the MoU agreed by the Government of Indonesia and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM). The peace process belongs to the people of Aceh and now the signatories of the MoU, together with the newly and democratically elected Governor, and with the support of the EU, ASEAN and the wider international community, will need to continue the long term implementation of the MoU. |
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Open letter to the people of Aceh |
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AMM has completed all its tasks – last COSA 2 December |
The 44th and last COSA meeting was held on Saturday 2 December 2006. The parties remarked on the excellent cooperation since the signing of the Helsinki Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in August of last year. They agreed that the COSA mechanism has been an important vehicle for driving the peace process forward in a constructive and consensual fashion. The parties to the peace agreement thanked the AMM for having completed its tasks as mandated in the MoU and expressed their appreciation for AMM’s support in creating sustainable peace in Aceh. The conflict is over and the peace process is on an irreversible track. In the meeting, Malik Mahmud told the parties that GAM was currently in a state of transition toward a political movement which would be complete by mid 2007. The parties welcomed his reaffirmation that GAM accepted Aceh as an integral part of the unitary state of the Republic of Indonesia. |
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Pieter Feith discussed reintegration with former GAM commanders |
On Wednesday 29 November 2006 the Head of the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM), Mr. Pieter Feith, participated in a discussion on international community support for the continued reintegration process with Aceh Transitional Committee (KPA) representatives from across Aceh. In the meeting Pieter Feith talked about the future of the peace process and the role and responsibilities of the participants. In this regard he stressed the importance of direct communications between the parties. The participants in the meeting discussed the reintegration process and recognized that as a long term process it will continue post-AMM. Pieter Feith pointed out that the international community will remain engaged in Aceh and continue to support the peace process in the future. |
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German Ambassador visits AMM |
On 28 November 2006 the newly appointed German Ambassador, Mr. Paul Freiherr von Maltzahn, made a courtesy call on the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM). The Ambassador was received by AMM senior staff who briefed him on the mission and the progress made in the Aceh peace process. The discussion focused on the challenges and difficulties AMM, as a joint EU and ASEAN mission, had experienced over the last 15 months and what lessons could be learned from this experience while planning future missions. The German Ambassador was mainly interested in the early phases of the mission and under what conditions the AMM arrived in Aceh. Most likely no other mission has ever deployed faster than the AMM and a key lesson to be drawn is to be flexible in procedures and approaches while establishing a mission. This was shown by the one month long initial monitoring presence (IMP) supplied by the participating EU and ASEAN member states before the AMM could officially be launched on 15 September 2005. |
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Ms. Elisabeth Rehn visited the AMM |
The former Finnish Defence Minister and co-author of the acclaimed report “Woman, War and Peace”, Ms. Elisabeth Rehn, visited the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) on Friday 24 November. Ms. Rehn was briefed by both international and local AMM staff on the mission’s achievements, mandate and status. A particular attention was given to issues such as human rights and gender. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss lessons learned from AMM on the implementation of the United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution 1325 on Woman, Peace and Security, in view of future EU crisis management missions under the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP). Resolution 1325 is the first resolution ever passed by the UN Security Council that specifically addresses the impact of war on women, and women's contributions to conflict resolution and sustainable peace. |
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Swedish Human Rights Ambassador visited AMM |
On 19 November the Swedish Human Rights Ambassador, Jan Nordlander, paid a visit to the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM). The Ambassador was briefed on the human rights findings of the mission through its mandate in Aceh, and on the wider context of human rights developments in Indonesia. In an open discussion that followed, which also included the wider mandate of the AMM and recent developments in Aceh, such as the situation in the run up to the first ever direct and democratic local elections to be held in the province, the Ambassador showed considerable interest in the work of AMM. Further, on the issue of lessons learned, both AMM representatives and the Ambassador agreed that the success of the mission’s approach to human rights deserves follow-up in other EU missions and in Brussels, leading to a higher profile for the subject. |
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Agreement on temporary police increase – COSA 4 November |
In the 43rd meeting of the Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) held on 4 November, the parties agreed in principle on a temporary increase of 2.433 police officers, subject to modalities to be discussed. The purpose is to further ensure a secure and peaceful environment during the election period. The meeting also expressed its firm support for the agreement reached by the parties on the disbursement of reintegration funds to ex-GAM combatants. This technical solution includes the handing over of a list of names of the 3000 ex-combatants to AMM, a process that has already started, and the subsequent payment of funds. Other issues discussed in the COSA meeting dealt with the implementing Regulations for the Law on the Governing of Aceh and the Government of Indonesia’s fulfilment of MoU article 4.9. |
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AMM stresses the importance of Dialogue |
On Friday 3 November 2006 the Head of the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM), Mr. Pieter Feith, invited representatives of the wider civil society to participate in a discussion on the role of civil society in a sustainable peace process after AMM’s departure on 15 December 2006. The meeting was part of AMM’s efforts to make the peace in Aceh self-sustainable. As the complete ownership of the peace process will be taken over by the people of Aceh and the two parties to the Helsinki Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), it is important that mechanisms to ensure a lasting peace are put in place. |
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Pieter Feith called on GAM leadership in Stockholm |
Pieter Feith, the Head of the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM), accompanied by AMM Chief of Staff Justin Davies, paid a courtesy call on Tengku Hasan di Tiro in Stockholm, Sweden, on Wednesday 11 October 2006. The visit provided a timely opportunity to review the latest developments in Aceh and to meet with Malik Mahmud and Zaini Abdullah to discuss a few outstanding issues in relation to the continued peace process. The meeting was part of AMM’s wider mandate in supporting the implementation of the MoU signed in Helsinki on 15 August 2005 and facilitating dialogue between the Government of Indonesia and GAM. |
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AMM hosts Buka Puasa |
On 12 October 2006, Principal Deputy Head of Mission, Dato' Mohd. Rozi Bin Bahrom, hosted a break of the fast gathering for prominent guests and AMM national staff. General Rozi gave a short speech, welcoming the guests and wishing everybody a blessed fasting festivity. The event was held at the AMM Head of Mission residence in Banda Aceh and allowed the guests to interact and communicate in a warm and friendly manner. |
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Dutch Development Minister visits AMM |
The Development Minister from the Netherlands, Ms. Agnes van Ardenne, visited the AMM headquarters in Banda Aceh on Monday 9 September 2006. The visit to AMM, conducted together with the Dutch Ambassador to Indonesia, Mr. Nikolaos Van Dam, and a small delegation was part of a larger visit to Aceh. The visitors were met and briefed by AMM Principal Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Dato' Mohd. Rozi Bin Baharom, and other senior staff members. The meeting provided an opportunity for the visiting minister to discuss issues regarding the mandate and status of the mission as well as the latest developments in the Aceh peace process. In the meeting, Ms. Van Ardenne also announced the continued financial support from the Netherlands for the final extension of the mission that came into effect on 15 September 2006 and will end on 15 December 2006. |
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Royal College of Defence Studies visits AMM |
Twelve senior Officers from the United Kingdom Royal College of Defence Studies visited the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) on Sunday 17 September 2006. The Officers, coming from various countries around the world participating in one year educational programme in London, United Kingdom, were hosted by the AMM Head of Mission, Mr. Pieter Feith and other AMM Senior Staff. The full day programme on the Aceh Peace Process and the Monitoring Mission in particular, included several briefings on political as well as operational aspects of the mission. A special focus was given to the mutually reinforcing cooperation between the two regional actors participating; the EU and the ASEAN. The visit to Banda Aceh and the AMM was part of a larger study trip to South-East Asian region and Australia. |
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Closure of Paya Bakong incident as a COSA issue |
The Commission of Security Arrangements (COSA) meeting of Saturday 16 September 2006 focused on the Paya Bakong incident of 3 July 2006. It was agreed by the parties that the issue will now be taken forward as a matter of normal police and judicial procedures, which is the responsibility of the Government of Indonesia. The GoI’s and AMM’s investigations pointed clearly to serious violations of the MoU including disproportionate use of force by the military and TNI involvement in matters of law and order which are the sole responsibility of the police. The TNI in Aceh must abide by the universal principles of human rights, which have been adopted in national law, and honour the culture and traditional customs of Aceh. The GoI promised to take appropriate measures in accordance with the Constitution and Indonesian law. Other issues discussed in the meeting were the Law on the Governing of Aceh (LoGA), reintegration and levels of police personnel during the local elections. |
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AMM visited by Mr. Glyn Ford – EU Chief Election Observer designate |
On Tuesday 12 September 2006 the AMM was visited by a delegation from the European Commission in Jakarta and Mr. Glyn Ford – EU Chief Election Observer designate. The visit provided an opportunity to discuss political and technical issues in regards to the upcoming local elections in Aceh, scheduled for 11 December 2006, which will be monitored by an EU Election Observation Mission (EOM). The AMM will not observe the elections as it is not within its mandate. This will be done by the EOM which is a separate technical mission with specific competencies related to elections. AMM will continue to monitor the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), facilitate contacts between the parties and investigate on violations as necessary until 15 December. |
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AMM extended - Remains engaged in reduced format |
On 7 September 2006, the Council of the European Union officially decided to extend the EU-led Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) in Indonesia for a final period of three months up to 15 December 2006. The decision was taken in coordination with participating ASEAN countries. As a consequence of the remarkable progress achieved by the parties and with a view to completing the handover of ownership of the process to the parties and the people of Aceh the AMM will reduce its presence in Aceh. From 15 September 2006 and in a configuration of 36 monitors AMM will continue to monitor the implementation of the commitments in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), facilitate contacts between the parties and investigate violations as necessary. As of 11 September 2006, the AMM will reorganise its internal structure and all remaining AMM monitors will be based in Banda Aceh. The AMM district offices will be closed. Thereafter, mobile monitoring from Banda Aceh will be available for deployment throughout Aceh as needed. |
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Read the full AMM press release of 11 September |
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COSA meeting welcomes the confirmation of the election date |
In the 41st meeting of the Commission of Security Arrangements (COSA), on 2 September 2006, the main points of discussion were the Law on the Governing of Aceh, the Paya Bakong incident of 3 July 2006 and a possible increase of police officers in view of the forthcoming local elections. The meeting, chaired by the AMM Head of Mission, Mr. Pieter Feith, was held in good spirit and was attended by the Minister for Communication and Information, Mr. Sofyan Djalil, Mr. Irwandi Yusuf from the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) and the acting Governor of Aceh, Mr. Mustafa Abubakar. Also, all parties noted and welcomed the announcement by the GoI confirming that the local elections (Pilkada) will be held on 11 December 2006. |
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First Anniversary of the Helsinki Agreement |
On the 15 August 2006, the parties to the Aceh peace process, together with the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) and in attendance of former President Martti Ahtisaari, celebrated the first anniversary of the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in Banda Aceh. On this occasion a Commission of Security Arrangements (COSA) meeting was held and the parties noted with satisfaction the significant progress that has been made in implementing the peace accord. Celebrations were later held in Ulhee Lee port where the Vice President, Jusuf Kalla, Mr. Ahtisaari, acting Governor of Aceh, Mustafa Abubakar, and GAM leader, Malik Mahmud, held speeches. The ceremony also included Upacara Peusijeuk and traditional songs and dances. Looking forward, the AMM Head of Mission, Pieter Feith, said he was optimistic that the people of Aceh will enter 2007 with all the preconditions for a comprehensive, sustainable and long lasting peace. |
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Swedish Defence Minister visits AMM |
Ms. Leni Björklund, the Defence Minister of Sweden visited the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) and the Swedish Rescue Service Agency (SRSA) on Tuesday 8 August 2006. The Minister was accompanied by the Ambassador of Sweden to Indonesia, Mr. Lennart Linnér, and the Head of Humanitarian Operations Department of SRSA, Mr. Kjell Larsson. The visit provided an occasion for the Minister and her delegation to witness the work of the SRSA on the ground in Aceh and in particular its logistical and technical support to the AMM. The Minister was also briefed by the Principal Deputy Head of AMM, Mr. Dato' Mohd. Rozi Bin Baharom, on the mission status and mandate as well as the latest developments in the Aceh peace process. In addition to the invaluable support to the AMM, the SRSA has also contributed to the international humanitarian efforts following the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami. |
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AMM present at handover of signed LoGA |
On Wednesday 3 August 2006 Home Affairs Minister, Muhammad Ma’aruf, symbolically handed over the Law of the Governing of Aceh to the acting Governor of Aceh, Mustafa Abubakar. The event took place following the signing of the Law by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Tuesday 2 August 2006. The ceremony that took place at Aceh Regional Parliament (DPRD) in Banda Aceh and was also attended by Information Minister, Sofyan Djalil, and State Minister for the Empowerment of State Apparatus, Taufik Effendi, as well as the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM). The mission was represented by Deputy Head of Mission, Amnesty, Reintegration and Human Rights, Renata Tardioli and Legal Advisor, Robert Hygrell. |
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The COSA 39th meeting discussed about LoGA and several issues |
The 39th meeting of the Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) was held on
Saturday 22 July 2006 under the chairmanship of the Head of Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM),
Mr. Pieter Feith. The delegation from the Government of Indonesia (GoI) was headed by
Minister Sofyan Djalil. The Free Aceh Movement (GAM) delegation was led by Mr. Irwandi Yusuf.
The Acting Governor was also present. |
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COSA meeting dedicated to the Law on the Governing of Aceh |
The 38th meeting of the Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) was held on Wednesday 12 July 2006 under the chairmanship of the Head of Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM), Mr. Pieter Feith. The delegation from the Government of Indonesia (GoI) was headed by Minister Sofyan Djalil. The Free Aceh Movement (GAM) delegation was led by Irwandi Yusuf. The acting Governor of Aceh, Mustafa Abubakar, was also present. This exceptional COSA meeting was dedicated entirely to discussing the new Law on the Governing of Aceh (LoGA) enacted by the National Parliament (DPR) on Tuesday 11 July 2006. At this initial exchange of views on the LoGA, all parties congratulated the National Parliament for the comprehensive outcome and welcomed the planned visit of members of the Special Committee (Pansus) to Aceh on 13 July which would offer further explanations. |
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AMM regrets shooting incident in Paya Bakong |
The Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) deeply regrets the shooting incident that took place in desa Keude Paya Bakong, Lhokseumawe area, in the evening of Monday 3 July that lead to an unfortunate loss of life and injuries to two others. Our thoughts are first and foremost with the victims and their families. No AMM personnel were wounded in the incident and all monitors who were present at the incident are safe. AMM considers this a serious incident and further investigations will be conducted. |
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COSA meeting 1 July |
The latest Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) meeting between the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM), the Government of Indonesia (GoI) and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) was held in Banda Aceh on Saturday 1 July 2006. The meeting which focused on the reintegration process and the draft Law on the Governing of Aceh as well as a number of security issues was chaired by the Principal Deputy Head of Aceh Monitoring Mission, Mr. Dato’ Mohd. Rozi Bin Baharom. The COSA meetings are the driving force of the peace process. They are regular meetings encompassing representatives from both sides, chaired by AMM, and held at both central (headquarters) and local (district) levels. This way AMM has been able to steer and gauge progress on the various steps in the implementation of the Memorandum of Unederstanding (MoU) and to help facilitate solving any hiccups on the way. |
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AMM Head of Mission invited to speak at the European Parliament |
On June 21, the AMM Head of Mission, Mr. Pieter Feith, was invited by the Committee for Foreign Affaires at the European Parliament to speak about the EU-led Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM). The presentation given by Mr. Feith focused on the mission itself, in particular its innovative and groundbreaking cooperation with five ASEAN partners, as well as on ensuring sustainability of the peace process. Among several issues raised, the AMM Head of Mission stressed the importance of early deployment of the mission and immediate and visible destruction of GAM weapons. Mr. Feith further noted that this is the first time that the EU has deployed human rights monitors as part of its crisis management operations. In connection with the presentation to the European Parliament, Mr. Feith also held a press briefing for the international press corps in Brussels, Belgium (photo). |
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COSA meeting 17 June |
The 36th Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) meeting between the parties of the peace process was held in an amicable atmosphere in Banda Aceh on 17 June 2006. The meeting was chaired by the Head of the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM), Mr. Pieter Feith. The parties considered the state of the Law on the Governing of Aceh and AMM urged the parties to manage expectations on the outcome of the law currently being finalised by the National Parliament. The parties were further informed by the Executive Director of the Aceh Reintegration Board (BRA) on the restructuring of the BRA. The meeting also discussed post-AMM structures and the Government of Indonesia’s action plan on illegal organisations. |
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Javier Solana welcomes the official extension of AMM |
Javier Solana, EU High Representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy, today welcomed the EU Council decision to extend the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) by three months until 15 September 2006. The decision was made on 7 June by the European Union Foreign Minister’s in a regular Council meeting in Brussels, Belgium. The decision, which is based on an invitation from the Government of Indonesia with the full support of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM), will contribute to further strengthening confidence and trust between the parties. The parties are aware that this extension must be the last one. |
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AMM medical teams return from Yogyakarta |
Following the terrible earthquake in the area of Yogyakarta, Central Java, on Saturday 27 May 2006, the AMM quickly responded to the disaster and offered its assistance to the Government of Indonesia (GoI). By decision of the AMM Head of Mission and in coordination with the GoI, two SOS International medical teams to the AMM (2 medical doctors, 4 paramedics, and 1 driver/administrator) were deployed to the area and made available to the overall emergency response. The first team left Banda Aceh on 29 May and the second team on 30 May. The teams have provided medical assistance to the victims of the earthquake and have treated approximately 250 patients under the supervision of the local authorities. Before departing from the disaster area the teams handed over its duties to Navy TNI medical corps and AUSAID. All disposable material has been donated for the continuing aid efforts. The AMM again expresses its deepest condolences to the people of central Java. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have suffered the consequences of the earthquake. |
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AMM visited by the Deputy Defence Minister of Brunei |
The AMM Head of Mission, Mr. Pieter Feith, met with the Deputy Defence Minister of Brunei, Mr Pehin Yasmin, on Monday 5 June 2006. Mr. Yasmin made a courtesy call to the AMM headquarters in Banda Aceh where he received an update on the current situation in the Aceh peace process. Mr. Feith expressed his gratitude to the Sultanate of Brunei who is contributing with 6 monitors in the joint EU – ASEAN Aceh Monitoring Mission. The meeting further provided an opportunity to discuss lessons learned as regards the EU – ASEAN collaboration. The EU sees AMM as a possible model for future co-operation with ASEAN in the context of the evolving ASEAN Security Community". |
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Reintegration in focus – COSA meeting 3 June |
The 35th Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) meeting between the Government of Indonesia (GoI), the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) and the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) took place on Saturday 3 June 2006. The main focus for the meeting was reintegration issues. The parties were presented with an update on planned steps regarding the disbursement of the 2006 funds as well as the internal organisation of the Aceh reintegration Board (BRA). All parties agreed that reintegration is the responsibility of the GoI. The acting Governor of Aceh, Mustafa Abubakar, will be formulating a solution to the restructuring of the BRA and report back to the AMM on this issue by 9 June 2006. Other topics discussed were post-AMM structures and the future of district level COSA meetings as well as human rights training for the police. |
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AMM expresses its condolences and offers assistance to the people of central Java |
The Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) expresses its deepest condolences to the people of Java in the aftermath of the terrible earthquake that took place in the area of Yogyakarta, Central Java on Saturday 27 May 2006. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have suffered the consequences of the earthquake. The AMM stands ready to assist the affected population in any possible way. By decision of the AMM Head of Mission, two SOS International medical teams to the AMM (2 medical doctor, 4 paramedics, and 1 driver) have been deployed to the area and made available to the Government of Indonesia. The teams will provide medical assistance to the victims of the earthquake. |
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COSA meeting 15 May |
The 34th meeting of the Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) was held on Monday 15 May 2006. The parties discussed the latest developments in the field of reintegration and heard a statement by the Chief Executive of the Aceh Reintegration Board (BRA), Husni Syabi, on his views and ideas for the continued efforts of BRA. The Government of Indonesia gave an update on the proceedings currently held in the National Parliament (DPR) on the draft Law on the Governing of Aceh (LoGA). Also the AMM presented some considerations on the post-AMM situation in Aceh, stating that ownership of the process should gradually be taken over by the parties as the role of AMM is phased out. The next COSA meeting is proposed for Friday 2 June or Saturday 3 June 2006 at 10.00 hrs. |
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AMM extension |
Yesterday 11 May in Brussels, favourable consideration was given by the EU to the Government of Indonesia's request for AMM to continue its mandate until the date of the local elections (Pilkada) in Aceh, but no later than 15 September, 2006. The parties to the Helsinki MoU are aware that this extension must be the last one. When AMM leaves Aceh, it will have completed all its assigned tasks as agreed by the parties in Helsinki. |
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Europe Day, 9 May |
On the 9 May, Europe Day, Europe marks the anniversary of a new vision for Europe . The aim was to make war between Europe 's nations unthinkable. Over 50 years later, we celebrate this vision that brought Western Europe an unprecedented period of peace. In Banda Aceh, the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) and the European Commission (EC) celebrated Europe Day jointly with a reception at Europe House. Among the invited were representatives of the EU, local government, donor and non governmental organisations as well as representatives of the Acehnese civil society. On this occasion the AMM and EC also published a joint article in the local newspaper Serambi Indonesia. |
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The Aceh Monitoring Mission Experience |
On 3 May, the AMM Head of Mission, Mr. Pieter Feith, participated in a one-day seminar in Jakarta co-organised by the Centre for European Studies – University of Indonesia and the European Commission. The seminar, entitled: Beyond the Tsunami from Recovery to Peace , aimed at presenting an overview of the challenges faced by Indonesia , the country hardest hit by the tsunami, and the role of the European Union in support of Indonesia . The seminar had a specific session on peace and security in Aceh. On this occasion Mr. Pieter Feith presented his paper on the Aceh Monitoring Mission Experience. A part from the AMM Head of Mission, the panel was formed by General Supiadin, Aceh Military Commander, Irwandi Yusuf, Senior GAM representative, Ronan Mac-Aongusa, European Commission and Humam Hamid, Director of Aceh Recovery Forum. |
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Elections in sight – COSA meeting on 29 April |
The 33rd meeting of the Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) was held on Saturday 29 April 2006 under the chairmanship of the Head of Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM), Pieter Feith . The participants discussed several issues in relation to the implementation of the Helsinki Memorandum of Understanding, such as the Law on the Governing of Aceh, a possible extension of AMM and local elections to be held. AMM clarified that it will not monitor the elections, as it is not within its mandate. This will be done by a separate EU election observation mission, following an invitation by the GoI. The parties further noted the arrival of a senior legal advisor to the AMM tasked to assist the parties in taking forward the resolution of the pending amnesty cases. |
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High Level COSA meeting chaired by Javier Solana |
A first High Level Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) meeting was held in the Governor's residence (Pendopo) in Banda Aceh on Saturday 22 April. The meeting was co-chaired by the European Union High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), Mr. Javier Solana, and the AMM Head of Mission, Mr. Pieter Feith . The meeting where issues such as reintegration, legislative change, amnesty and security arrangements were discussed lasted for approximately for one and a half hour. After the meeting Mr. Solana and Mr. Feith, together with the acting Governor of Aceh, Mr. Abubakar, the Senior Representative for the Government of Indonesia, Minister. Djalil and the Senior GAM representative Mr. Mahmud held a short briefing on the outcome of the meeting. |
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EU High Representative, Javier Solana, to visit AMM |
The European Union High Representative, Mr. Javier Solana, will visit Aceh and the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) on Saturday 22 April 2006 . Mr. Solana will co-chair a High-Level COSA meeting together with the AMM Head of Mission, Mr. Pieter Feith. The COSA meeting will be attended by Minister Sofyan Djalil and Mr. Malik Mahmud as representatives for the Government of Indonesia and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM). He will also meet with the European Commission which will provide an opportunity to discuss wider European efforts to support the peace process and on-going tsunami reconstruction efforts and visit AMM headquarters. |
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New AMM Principal Deputy Head of Mission |
Major General Dato Mohd. Rozi Baharom from Malaysia has been appointed the new Principal Deputy Head of Mission for AMM. As of 14 March 2006 he will replace General Nipat Thonglek from Thailand who will be returning to his country for new assignments. Md Rozi has experience from the United Nations Mission in Somalia and has also been working as a diplomat in Thailand. Before joining the AMM he was the Army Chief of Staff at the Army Headquarters, Ministry of Defence, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. |
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AMM extension takes effect |
On 27 February 2006, the EU Council extended the duration of the mission for a further three months, until 15 June 2006. The extension is based on an official invitation from the Government of Indonesia and with the full support of the Free Aceh Movement (GAM). It was also agreed that the AMM would downsize its personnel. On Monday 13 March 2006, the AMM held an internal goodbye ceremony for the around 100 monitors leaving Aceh. The extension of AMM will officially take effect on 15 March 2006. The tasks of AMM will remain the same except for the decommissioning of GAM armaments and relocation of non-organic military and police, as this has already been completed. |
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Visit of Brunei Police Commissioner to AMM |
On 13 March 2006, the Commissioner of Police for the Royal Brunei Police Force, Pehin Zainudin, visited the Brunei AMM contingent. On this occasion Mr. Zainudin made a courtesy call to the AMM Head of Mission, Mr. Pieter Feith . The meeting provided a possibility for the Head of Mission to thank the Brunei Police Commissioner for the Brunei contribution to the AMM. They also took stock of progress made so far and discussed future challenges. The visit took place at the AMM Headquarters in Banda Aceh. |
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Commission on Security Arrangements meeting (COSA) |
The latest COSA meeting was held on Sunday 12 March 2006 and was chaired by the AMM Head of Mission, Mr Pieter Feith . Senior representatives of the Government of Indonesia and the Aceh Free Movement as well as the acting Governor of Aceh participated in the meeting. The parties discussed among other things the reintegration process, several security related incidents and pending amnesty cases. The next meeting will be held on Monday 27 March 2006. |
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AMM monitors leave Aceh |
More than one hundred monitors from Europe and ASEAN will leave Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) in the middle of March after the successful completion of their tasks. Around 85 will stay in Aceh until 15 June. Among the AMM officials leaving the coming week are Principal Deputy Head of Mission Nipat THONGLEK from Thailand and Deputy Head of Mission (Operations) Jaakko OKSANEN from Finland . The picture shows Nipat THONGLEK and Jaakko OKSANEN with former acting governor Azwar Abubakar. |
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AMM officially extended |
Following an invitation by the Government of Indonesia, supported by the Aceh Free Movement (GAM), the EU Council decided on 27 February 2006 to extend the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) for a further period of three months until 15 June 2006. |
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Council Conclusions on Indonesia / Aceh |
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US Delegation visits AMM |
On Saturday 25 February the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) was pleased to receive a visit by a high level US delegation including US Senator Feingold, Commander of the US Pacific Command, Admiral Fallon and the Chief Political Officer at the US Embassy in Jakarta , Mr. Desjardins. |
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COSA meeting on 25 February 2006 |
T The 30th meeting of the Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) was held on Saturday 25 February 2006 under the chairmanship of the Head of Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM), Pieter Feith . The delegation from the Government of Indonesia (GoI) was headed by Major General Bambang Darmono. The Free Aceh Movement (GAM) delegation was led by Mr. Irwandi Yusuf. The Governor of Aceh, Mustafa Abubakar, was also present. |
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Verification process completed |
A process undertaken by the Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) to verify the locations and strengths of organic TNI and Polri units in Aceh confirms the Government of Indonesia compliance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The levels of TNI and Police presence are within the maximum strength specified in article 4.7 of the August 2005 MoU, of 14.700 for the TNI and 9100 for the police. “The results of the verification process are very encouraging […] and this will help to further increase confidence and trust between the parties”, stated Pieter Feith , AMM Head of Mission. |
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Commission on Security Arrangements (COSA) meeting on 11 February |
This bi-weekly COSA meeting was held under the chairmanship of the Head of Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM) Pieter Feith and was attended by Major General Bamband Darmono, representing the Government of Indonesia and Irwandi Yusuf, who led the GAM delegation. The parties discussed several issues; including security, reintegration, pending amnesty cases and the Law on the Governing of Aceh.. |
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Kalla visits the EU |
The excellent bilateral relations between Indonesia and the European Union have been strengthened by the successful EU involvement in Aceh through AMM, and this provides a positive momentum for establishing even closer dialogue and co-operation, said Javier Solana, European Union High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), when he met with the Indonesian Vice President Muhammad Yusuf Kalla in Brussels 19 January. |
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Socialising in Lhokseumawe |
- You have managed to build mutual trust to the level, which promise good for the future. This
development, reconciliation is recognised and welcomed also outside Aceh, said AMM Deputy Head of Mission
Jaakko Oksanen at a MoU Socialising Event in Lhokseumawe 17 January.He added: |
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Final Police withdrawal Ceremony |
A final ceremony marking the end of police relocation from Aceh was held in Lhokseumawe port on 31 December 2005. The ceremony was attended by among others Aceh Police Chief, Mr Bahrumsah Kasman, and AMM Principal Deputy Head of Mission , Mr Nipat Thonglek. The 2.150 police personnel to be relocated in this fourth final phase will leave Aceh on 4 January 2006 and thus finalising the entire redeployment stage. The slight delay, which has been reported to the AMM, is due to technical problems with the transport vessels. |
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Last non-organic troops leave Aceh |
On 29 December a final departure ceremony was held in Lhokseumawe port before the troops marched
on board the ships. The ceremony was attended by the Aceh Military Commander, General Supiadin, Senior
GAM Representative, Irwandi Yusuf, and AMM Head of Mission, Pieter Feith. By relocating the final 3.300
non-organic troop out of Aceh before the end of the year, the TNI have fully complied with the Memorandum |
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Human rights and reintegration conference |
On 28-29 December, fifteen monitors from eight district offices in Aceh gathered for a conference on Human Rights and Reintegration at the AMM headquarter. As decommissioning and withdrawal of troops is nearing completion, the focus of the monitoring activities will be on reintegration, in accordance with the MoU. At the conference, the director of the department for social affairs in Aceh presented the governments plans for reintegration, the International Office for Migration as its partner in implementing these plans presented how they are working together at district level. The director of the NGO network Koalisi NGO HAM, gave a presentation on how they work together with the national Commission on Human Rights and the general Human Rights situation before and after the signing of the MoU. The director of Aceh Judicial Monitoring gave a presentation on the new Law of Governing of Aceh. The seminar was concluded by the Head of Mission who addressed the monitors. |
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Final Decommissioning Ceremony |
A final ceremony marking the end of the decommissioning task given to the parties in the Helsinki
Memorandum of Understanding took place today (Wednesday 21 December) at Blang Padang Sportsfield in Banda
Aceh. The location was symbolically chosen as the very same field where the first weapon collection took
place on 15 September. Since then, the mission has successfully collected and destroyed 840 weapons. The
ceremony was attended by AMM Head of Mission, Mr Pieter Feith, Special Representative of the Government
of Indonesia, Major General Bambang Dharmono, Senior Representative of Free Aceh Movement (GAM), Mr
Irwandi Yusuf as well as other dignitaries. |
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Speech by AMM Head of Mission, Mr Pieter Feith |
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Completion of GAM Weapons Decommissioning |
AMM Head of Mission, Pieter Feith, welcomed on 19 December the completion of the fourth and last decommissioning phase. GAM has met its obligations according to the Helsinki Memorandum of Understanding. A total of 840 accepted weapons have been handed over to the AMM. The Government of Indonesia will now proceed with the relocation of non-organic troops and police personnel. |
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The Fourth Phase of the Decommissioning |
Smiles and handshakes between Indonesian soldiers and GAM representatives are seen at decommissioning sites in Aceh as the fourth and final decommissioning phase is progressing. This picture is from Kutacane (14 December), where GAM handed over 69 weapons. Of these 13 were disqualified and 56 accepted by AMM. The Government of Indonesia disputed one of the weapons AMM had accepted. The final authority to decide in disputed cases rests with AMM. In Blangkejeren (15 December) GAM handed in 51 weapons of which 4 were disqualified, 47 accepted by AMM and 3 disputed by the Government of Indonesia. A further 5 weapons were decommissioned in Banda Aceh. Among them 4 was accepted, 1 disqualified and 0 disputed. The total number of weapons accepted by AMM on 15 December was 51. |
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Aceh : So Far So Good |
On 13 December 2005 the International Crisis Group (ICG) published its latest update briefing on the key achievements in Aceh; one year after the Indian Ocean tsunami devastated the region. The briefing reports that the Aceh peace process has exceeded expectations thus far. A press release from the organisation states that the International Aceh Monitoring Mission (AMM), headed by the European Union’s Pieter Feith, has quickly and professionally resolved the few violent confrontations that have occurred. |
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