Patterns of New Order Torture: Initial Findings from the Indonesia Torture Mapping (IndoTorM) Dataset

Abstract

Abstract: During Indonesia’s “New Order” (1966–98), torture became systematic. Here we present the initial findings from the Indonesia Torture Mapping (IndoTorM) dataset project, which attempts to bring together various testimonial accounts to map the spread of torture during the regime. We present initial findings on physical, sexual, and mental torture. We show how particular forms of torture were more commonly used against men, women, or children and examine the stability of these patterns across regions and over time. We argue that the patterns of torture revealed show a high degree of consistency in how severe pain and suffering was inflicted on victims during the length of the New Order. Drawing on psychological insights into how groups normalize harmful acts, such consistency indicates that the regime’s torture was not random but, rather, that it was likely learned and reinforced normative behavior. It also highlights potential areas of inconsistency or contestation.