ABC AUSTRALIA, 27/05/2004 22:52:37
Indonesia rejects bias against terrorism research group
The head of a prominent Indonesia-based terrorism research group has been accused
of publicity seeking.
Sydney Jones, of the International Crisis Group, claims an extension on her work
permit in Jakarta has been refused and she is facing expuslion from the country.
The group has prepared reports on sensitive political issues, including Aceh, Papua,
Maluka, Poso, police and military reform and terrorism.
Ms Jones believes she and four other staff members are being forced out because the
government considers the reports biased.
However, spokesman for the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, Marty Natalagawa, says Ms
Jones is the subject of a normal work permit matter that has been blown out of
proportion
"We are not going to allow this situation to be depicted as being Indonesia going
against like the freedom of expression, of freedom of association or whatever," he
said.
"We have procedures that need to be followed in terms of work permits, in terms of
visas, they are the part and parcel of living and working oversees, nothing more and
nothing less."
27/05/2004 22:52:37 | ABC Radio Australia News
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