East Timor Genocide

East Timor Genocide

On December 7, 1975, Indonesia launched a military invasion of East Timor following its declaration of independence from Portugal. The Indonesian military conducted systematic operations against civilians, resistance fighters, and political leaders.

Military campaigns involved mass killings, forced displacement, arbitrary detention, and destruction of villages. Civilians were subjected to starvation, violence, and forced relocation. Resistance groups, including the FRETILIN movement, were targeted along with their supporters.

Estimates indicate that between 100,000 and 200,000 people were killed during the occupation, representing roughly one-third of East Timor’s population. The United Nations and international observers have classified the events as crimes against humanity and acts of genocide. The occupation continued until 1999, when East Timor gained independence following a UN-supervised referendum.