Publication

This publication examines the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between representatives of the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM), signed in Helsinki in August 2005. It introduces the background of the peace agreement and analyzes why it is different from earlier ones. The author argues though that there are several major threats to the process: ambiguous and vaguely worded key provisions; potential spoilers on both sides; and further long term challenges, such as corruption and poor government. Even with these issues the author concludes that there is reason for optimism.