Defence exchanges between Australia and Indonesia benefit both countries and do not result in suppression of civilians, despite claims by Harold Crouch (11/2).

Human rights abuses often occur when inexperienced troops are placed in difficult situations. Training is more likely to help soldiers appreciate the benefits of working with civilians and their responsibilities for their protection. Knowledge of international laws and conventions, propionate and correct use of lethal force, dealing with critical situations are part and parcel of military training. Failure of callous and incompetent should not be attributed to their training. Cruelty requires no skills.

The maintenance of national integrity is a legitimate role for armed forces, and this can include use of military force against insurgencies. For example, the Union forces in the American Civil War, Malaysia's fight against the communist and the Sandinista's against the Contras.

The Australian/Indonesian exchange program is small; involving little spending and few personal. However, it contributes to the development of Indonesia's armed forces, so that it can better respond to the needs of a large and diverse nation facing significant social and economic challenges. If Australia can help in a small way it can only be for the better. It is in no ones interest if Indonesia should disintegrates in a violent and disorderly manner, as is the case of Yugoslavia.

The Age, 14 February 1993.  

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