Indië Verloren: Selling a Colonial War

The documentary 'Indië Verloren... Selling a Colonial War' reveals how the Dutch government maintained the narrative of a justified war in Indonesia (1945-1949) for decades through framing, propaganda, and political decisions. The film illustrates how, under the guise of 'police actions,' the government sold this struggle to the public, and why the violence on the other side was neglected during the Bersiap period. Internationally renowned historians from Indonesia, Australia, America, and the Netherlands provide insights into this complex history. 'Indië Verloren' thus situates this war and history within the international political context of the time and demonstrates how various narratives continue to influence perspectives today. Organized in collaboration with Pennings Foundation. From August 15 to November 22, 2025, Pennings Foundation will showcase the photo project 'Mijn liefste Teun' by Tahnée Kleijn, inspired by her grandmother's diaries from her internment in a Japanese camp during World War II. Additionally, portraits of former forced laborers by Jan Banning from his renowned series 'Traces of War' will be displayed.