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Remy Herbert is a program manager in Maluku, Indonesia.
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Indonesia October 22, 2011 7:13PM
Uneasiness after sectarian violence in Ambon
Remy Herbert
Program Manager, Indonesia
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Mercy Corps is helping families living in "IDP centers" after fleeing their homes in recent sectarian violence. Photo: Remy Hebert/Mercy Corps
It has been over a month since conflict erupted again in Ambon, bringing back memories of the religious conflict which for many was a terrible but distant memory.
Eight people were killed and thousands displaced on Sept. 11. The houses of approximately 500 households were burned to the ground. On the surface, life has returned to normal — but not for 5,000 people in the five IDP centres that Mercy Corps Maluku is helping by distributing hygiene kits and other humanitarian assistance.
The centers are hot, crowded and dirty. Not everyone living in them lost their home that night. But many who fled homes that still exist have not yet returned. Despite reassurances from the Government that it is safe to do so, they are simply too afraid.
