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Indonesia calling : the right of all Indonesians "to choose the form of government under which they will live" (Atlantic Charter)

August, 1945

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August, 1945.

On the 17th August, 1945, with Japan just defeated, a meeting of delegates from all parts of Indonesia set up a Republic, drew up a democratic constitution and started the building of a free community of Indonesians. Their task was a heavy one. Millions were displaced by Japanese labour conscription, bands roamed the country and a passionate desire for independence felt by all sections of the population led to outbursts which it was almost impossible to guide along constructive paths. In the first few months the tempestuous crowds desired nothing more than to drive the white victors out of the country, not from Japanese sympathies but from dread of the return to pre war domination. Had the Indonesians struck then, great disasters would have been unavoidable. In November, 1945, however, Sjahrir was elected Premier of the Indonesian Republic. His principal policy was, from the start, pacification of the excited bands roaming the country, and agreement between a peaceful Indonesian community and white vested interests. Enemies of Indonesia deride this plan as impossible and claimed that the only hope of pacifying Indonesia lay in the use of Dutch and British troops. It became apparent, however, that Sjahrir's policy would be successful.

In August, 1946, the Netherlands Information Service in Batavia gave out the following communique:

"The well-known Netherlands M.P., Mr. Goedhart, has visited Solo, Magelang, Blitar, Malang and Probolingo and has told us his impressions impressions of one observer may perhaps have little value taken by themselves but his statements are partly covered by information we obtained through other sources and from these it appears clear that in the territory of the Republic the community already works satisfactorily. Factories producing the necessities of life are in production; the fields are being cultivated; the food position is satisfactory for the moment and the people live in a steadily developing community. It is true that the Dutch have considered it an axiom that the country could not be run without them. It now appears to be possible."

The offical recognition of the Indonesian Republic followed after much procrastination by the Dutch, in March of this year. The agreement then made allowed the Indonesians full rights in their Republic, which was to comprise the islands of Java and Sumatra, and representation at UNO. Borneo, Celebes and the other territories of Indonesia remained under the jurisdiction of the Netherlands.