Indonesia’s Merauke Project and Grasberg Mine Face Human Rights, Environmental Scrutiny
Geneva, Switzerland – International human rights and faith-based organizations are set to convene a side event at the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council on March 4th, focusing on the human rights and environmental consequences of Indonesia’s Merauke National Strategic Project and the operations of the Grasberg Mine [1].
Merauke National Strategic Project: A Large-Scale Development Zone
The Merauke National Strategic Project, also known as the Merauke Food and Energy Development Zone, spans approximately two million hectares in South Papua Province, an area nearly half the size of Switzerland [1]. Designated as a Special Economic Zone in 2023 by Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, the project aims to establish large-scale sugarcane plantations, a sugar factory, a bioethanol development initiative and one million hectares of new rice fields [1].
However, the project is raising concerns about potential large-scale deforestation and its impact on Indigenous West Papuan communities. The area overlaps with 858 hectares of natural forests and peatlands, supporting unique biodiversity [1]. Land clearing began in May 2024, resulting in the destruction of customary forests and critical ecosystems [1].
Grasberg Mine: Environmental Damage and Health Concerns
The Grasberg Mine, the world’s largest combined copper and gold mine by value and output, is also under scrutiny for its environmental impact [1]. Operations have caused widespread deforestation and severe river pollution, with an estimated 200,000 tonnes of toxic mining waste dumped into local rivers daily [1].
Indigenous West Papuan communities downstream are facing severe consequences, including sediment-choked rivers, vanished forests, and health problems due to heavy metal contamination in their water supply [1]. Residents are reportedly suffering from skin diseases and other serious health conditions [1].
Recent Incidents and Supply Chain Concerns
Recent events at the Grasberg mine have highlighted the fragility of the copper supply chain [3]. In 2025, a disaster at the mine resulted in seven fatalities and disrupted global copper supplies [4]. The Ertsberg mine, a part of the Grasberg complex, ceased operations in December 1972 after decades of production [2].
Calls for Action
The side event at the UN Human Rights Council will urge the Indonesian government to suspend the Merauke National Strategic Project pending a comprehensive re-evaluation to ensure compliance with international human rights and environmental obligations [1]. Speakers will also call for full recognition of the rights of Indigenous Peoples in Merauke Regency, the return of customary lands, and the restoration of damaged ecosystems [1].