fpcn
"...to Bougainvilleans, the land is like the skin on the back of your hand. You inherit it and it is your duty to pass it on to your children in as good a condition, or better, than that in which you received it. You would not expect us to sell our skin, would you?"
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The people of Bougainville are known throughout the world as one of
the few groups of indigenous people to have shut down a mine owned by
one of the mining giants of the world. Throughout the South Pacific, and indeed the world, this mineral-rich island with a population of only 160,000 has inspired those struggling for freedom and self-determination. Refusing to be bought off with paltry compensation offers, over the past 15 years Bougainvilleans have risked, and often paid with, their lives - to defend their land, their culture, their environment and the right to be free. |
Bougainville has survived the onslaughts of the Australian-backed Papua New Guinean army and the interests of a massive multi-national. They survived an eight year blockade, preventing food, medical supplies and reporters from entering the island. They started off combating modern warfare equipment with homemade and antique guns - and they won!
Source : http://www.eco-action.org/ssp/bougainville.html
