The riots in Papua and West Papua were triggered by allegations of racism involving Indonesian security forces against Papuan students. The supposed incident occurred shortly before the protests, where students from Papua claimed they were subjected to racial slurs and intimidation in Surabaya, Java. The incident ignited existing grievances surrounding human rights abuses and systemic discrimination against the predominantly Indigenous Papuan population, who have long felt marginalized by the central government. Social media played a crucial role in mobilizing the protests, with images and messages spreading rapidly, amplifying calls for solidarity among Papuans.As demonstrations spread across various cities in Papua and West Papua, the situation escalated quickly. Protesters faced off against police and military units, resulting in violent confrontations. Security forces utilized tear gas and fired live rounds in a bid to disperse crowds, which led to chaos and intense violence. Tragically, this turmoil resulted in the deaths of twenty individuals, with many more wounded. The scale of the unrest underscored the degree of frustration felt by many Papuans regarding their treatment by the Indonesian state, with systemic issues including poverty, lack of political representation, and the push for greater autonomy fueling the rage of the protestors.Additionally, it highlighted the role of racial discrimination within Indonesia’s diverse social tapestry, presenting significant challenges for national unity. The riots not only drew national attention but also sparked international scrutiny concerning human rights and the social dynamics within Indonesia’s easternmost provinces, indicating a crucial moment in the ongoing struggle for rights among Papuans. It serves as a poignant reminder of the power of social movements to respond to injustice, reflect the voice of marginalized communities, and the complexities of Indonesia’s broad societal issues.