The Royal Dutch Historical Society (KNHG)the professional association for historians, released a statement on Tuesday expressing its disgust at the intimidation of researcher Anne-Lot Hoek by activists who are or were involved in the Histori Bersama foundation and the KUKB foundation. Hoek, author of the book The battle for Bali (2021), is being attacked so fiercely, according to the KNHG, that there is “an infringement of the personal freedom and safety of the historian and her family”.
In her book, by NRC Called ‘impressive’, Hoek writes about imperialism, resistance and the struggle for independence on the Indonesian island of Bali between 1846-1950. There are numerous posts on the Histori Bersama site criticizing her work.
Hoek is accused of accepting a subsidy from the Dutch government for her research. She would also ignore critical Indonesian voices, such as those of activist Jeffrey Pondaag. Hoek’s book is said to be “nothing but Dutch government propaganda”.
‘Academic freedom at stake’
Hoek casts these accusations aside. She has often referred to Pondaag’s work and her book was written independently. According to KNHG director Antia Wiersma, who is speaking on behalf of the board on this issue, academic freedom is at stake. “What makes this case extra special is the threatening nature of the words and images spread by the people who are agitating against Anne-Lot Hoek. The history profession thrives on discussion, but this is no longer a scientific conversation.”
When asked, Anne-Lot Hoek does not want to elaborate on the harassment against her. “It is annoying that my work is so misunderstood by this party,” she says, “but that should of course never be a reason to speak so badly about someone’s person for so long and repeatedly.”
The KUKB foundation “represents the interests of (Indonesian) victims who suffered under the Dutch colonial occupation,” according to its website. Histori Bersama is an online platform where Dutch and Indonesian authors reflect on the colonial past. Founder Marjolein van Pagee was asked for a response, but did not provide one.