Dutch government announces inquiry into colonial violence in Indonesia

SBS World News Radio: The Dutch government has announced an inquiry into the final years of colonial rule in Indonesia, when its troops are accused of having used systematic violence to suppress opposition.

Cawi binti Baisa’s husband was among hundreds of men and boys killed by Dutch troops in the west Java village of Rawagede in 1947. Source: AAP

The Dutch government has announced an inquiry into the final years of colonial rule in Indonesia, when its troops are accused of having used systematic violence to suppress opposition.

Legal action on behalf of the widows of men massacred in 1947 in west Java during Indonesia's war for independence, as well as a survivor, forced the Dutch government to formally apologise several years ago.

And it was ordered to pay compensation.

More cases have subsequently emerged.

Amsterdam-based lawyer Liesbeth Zegveld has been representing the claimants.

Professor Zegveld told Kristina Kukolja about what she expects of the inquiry.