Appeasing Jakarta

The narrative delves into the historical decisions made by Gough Whitlam and Richard Woolcott in 1975 that set the stage for the 1999 intervention, questioning why wiser perspectives were overlooked. It examines the enduring influence of old power elites in Indonesia and the profound tragedy experienced by the East Timorese people. John Birmingham's account is a heartfelt exploration of the complex political landscape and the human cost of these events, highlighting the sorrow and suffering endured by those affected.