Geoffrey Robinson - If You Leave Us Here, We Will Die. How Genocide Was Stopped in East Timor

If You Leave Us Here, We Will Die: A Story of Genocide and Resilience in East Timor

"If You Leave Us Here, We Will Die" by Geoffrey Robinson is a powerful and timely account of the brutal genocide that unfolded in East Timor following Indonesia's invasion in 1975, and the subsequent violence that erupted after the 1999 independence referendum. Robinson, a renowned expert on Southeast Asian history, weaves together personal observations, meticulous historical research, and harrowing eyewitness accounts to paint a chilling portrait of human suffering and the devastating consequences of political greed. The book unveils the tragic story of East Timor, a small island nation that endured decades of violence and oppression. Robinson exposes the systematic and calculated nature of the Indonesian government's actions, dismantling the myth of spontaneous militia violence. He meticulously demonstrates how the Indonesian military, fueled by a culture of terror, orchestrated a campaign of systematic murder, displacement, and torture against the East Timorese population. Robinson's narrative extends beyond the immediate acts of violence, exploring the complicity of major world powers, including the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom, in the genocide of the late 1970s and the 1999 violence. He argues that their inaction and even support for the Indonesian regime contributed significantly to the tragedy unfolding in East Timor. However, the book also shines a light on a glimmer of hope. Despite the international community's initial failure to intervene, Robinson highlights the crucial role of armed intervention in late 1999 in preventing a second genocide. He underscores the importance of swift and decisive action in protecting vulnerable populations facing imminent threats. "If You Leave Us Here, We Will Die" serves as a powerful indictment of the international community's failures to hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes. It is a testament to the resilience of the East Timorese people, who endured unimaginable suffering and ultimately achieved their long-fought independence. Geoffrey Robinson's gripping narrative is a vital reminder of the importance of confronting historical injustices and seeking justice for the victims of genocide. His meticulous research and personal insights provide a compelling and unforgettable account of one of the most tragic chapters in recent history.