A historical promise by the Netherlands regarding the independence of the indigenous people of West Papua turned into a genocide that received little attention. Featuring restored archive footage, this documentary reveals a hidden history.
In the 1960s, it seemed West Papua was on the path to independence. However, international political interests and economic gain decided otherwise. Under pressure from global powers, the region was handed over to Indonesia, with the promise of a referendum. But this ‘Act of Free Choice’ marked the beginning of one of the most ignored genocides in history. Featuring unique restored 35mm archive footage, The Promise brings this story back to life. The moving testimonies of Papuans in exile and their struggle for recognition poignantly depict how colonialism gave way to neo-colonialism – and how the world remains silent to this day.
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Witfilm
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Fever Film
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KRO-NCRV
Distributor NL
Cinema Delicatessen
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Gouden Kalf nominees
Best Documentary Feature Film (2025)
Daan Veldhuizen
Best Documentary Feature Film (2025)
Iris Lammertsma
Best Documentary Feature Film (2025)
Boudewijn Koole
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