A Safe Place for Refugees

Armed conflict has left deep scars across Papua. It’s estimated that nearly 80,000 people are now displaced within their own country. Families forced to flee their homes due to unrest in their villages. They live in uncertainty – cut off from their communities, with no access to basic services. These are the people in urgent need of trauma recovery and hope.

In response, a remarkable initiative has emerged: a group of refugees has set up an alternative learning environment for women affected by violence. It’s not a traditional school, but a safe space where women come together, share their experiences, and begin rebuilding their lives.

With financial support from Hapin – Papua Support Foundation, six group sessions and a closing seminar are being organized. Young women lead these sessions, which focus on conflict analysis, human rights, digital safety and documentation. Participants receive practical tools to protect themselves and their communities from further violations.

By setting up a forum, a network is taking shape in which these women can raise their voices – for justice, for change, and for recognition.