Society
Of The Divine Word

The Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Society of the Divine Word (SVD) Ende (IDE) has extended humanitarian aid to residents affected by the recent land clearing at the former Hak Guna Usaha-HGU or (Right of Cultivation) estate in Nangahale, Sikka Regency, Flores, Indonesia.

This effort is a response to the ongoing suffering of the displaced community, emphasizing the principle that humanitarian assistance must reach those in distress.

The eviction, which took place on January 21, 2025, resulted in the removal of 101 structures from the disputed land, sparking tensions between local residents and authorities.

Despite the clearance operation, many displaced individuals have remained in the area, struggling with basic necessities such as food and clean water. Reports from the ground indicate that the affected community has been left without adequate drinking water, as wells in the vicinity were damaged during the operation.

“The principle is clear—we must help those who are suffering. After the incident on January 21, many of the displaced people are still residing in Nangahale,” Father Lorens, a JPIC SVD Ende representative stated. “Previously, we provided 1.8 tons of rice, which was insufficient for the 300 people we initially identified. We have since learned that around 60 additional individuals, who were not included in our initial data, also require urgent assistance.”

JPIC SVD Ende’s relief efforts include distributing food supplies, particularly rice, to address immediate hunger needs. The organization is also assessing the need for clean water distribution, as the destruction of local wells has left many without a potable water source.

The Nangahale land conflict has been ongoing for years. The Diocese of Maumere had previously been granted an HGU permit covering 879 hectares of plantation land in the region.

However, land disputes remain unresolved, leading to periodic conflicts between authorities and residents. The recent eviction was met with resistance, as many families had established homes and livelihoods on the contested land.

Local human rights and social justice groups have voiced concerns over the impact of the eviction, calling for long-term solutions that ensure the well-being of the affected residents.

JPIC SVD Ende’s intervention aims to provide immediate relief, but the broader challenge of land rights and housing security in Nangahale remains unresolved.

The humanitarian initiative by JPIC SVD Ende underscores the Catholic Church’s commitment to social justice, particularly in defending the rights of marginalized communities.

“Our focus is on providing relief and accompaniment. We are committed to standing with those who are struggling in Nangahale,” the JPIC SVD Ende representative added.

As the situation continues to unfold, JPIC SVD Ende, alongside other humanitarian organizations, is calling for coordinated efforts to support the affected families.

The organization urges local authorities and stakeholders to seek dialogue-based solutions to prevent further hardships for the displaced residents.

For now, JPIC SVD Ende remains dedicated to addressing the urgent needs of those affected, ensuring that no one is left without essential aid during this challenging time.