Story perspectives

UK Firms Face Backlash for Rights Abuses in West Papua

10/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

UK companies, including BP and Unilever, are implicated in human rights abuses and environmental destruction in West Papua, Indonesia.
The region has experienced decades of disappearances, torture, and mass evictions due to corporate activities.
A recent audit shows British firms profit from mining and palm oil industries despite local opposition.
The Grasberg mine, the largest gold mine globally, dumps 300,000 tonnes of toxic waste daily into rivers, causing significant environmental harm.
The UK’s historical involvement continues to displace local communities and perpetuate repression.

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Story summary

UK companies, including BP and Unilever, are implicated in human rights abuses and environmental destruction in West Papua, Indonesia.
The region has experienced decades of disappearances, torture, and mass evictions due to corporate activities.
A recent audit shows British firms profit from mining and palm oil industries despite local opposition.
The Grasberg mine, the largest gold mine globally, dumps 300,000 tonnes of toxic waste daily into rivers, causing significant environmental harm.
The UK’s historical involvement continues to displace local communities and perpetuate repression.