Of the over 2 million inhabitants of the Maluku islands or Moluccas, approximately 54% practice Islam and 44% practice Christianity. Through a traditional village alliance mechanism known as pela gandong, Christian and Muslim communities in the Maluku islands were able to resolve conflicts peacefully for many years. However, in the mid-1990s, transmigration and governmental restructuring changed the political dynamic and increased religious tensions. Conflict began in Ambon between Christians and Muslims and quickly spread to the surrounding islands. The unexpected outbreak of violent clashes in 1999 resulted in thousands of people being killed while others fled to neighboring islands. There have been accusations by both sides of interference by outside provocateurs and the role of the armed forces in the violence has been raised. The violence continued unabated throughout 2000, but by mid-2001 appeared to have reached a temporary lull in North Maluku. Sporadic outbursts of violence continue in Maluku, particularly in Ambon. A peace accord between Christian and Muslim factions was signed in February 2002, establishing a framework for restoring peace to the region. Observers have expressed skepticism about the long-term success of the accord and the commitment of the parties to the conflict to carrying out its provisions. Since 1999, it is estimated that 5,000 people have been killed and 500,000 displaced as a result of the conflict.
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