Pat Walsh, the One who never Stop Believing in Humanity

OBITUARY

INFID is saddened with the passing of Pat Walsh on December 29^th, 2025.   

Pat was one of Australia’s leading advocates and champions for human rights. Pat was a true internationalist who had given most of his lifetime advocating for the freedom and human rights of Indonesian and East Timorese people.

Pat’s crossed path with INFID was also part of his long journey in the world of advocacy. His contributions to INFID are significant. He hosted INFID’s conference themed “Land and Development” in Australia when the Indonesian government under Soeharto regime prohibited INFID’s activities at home. 

At INFID’s 40th Anniversary reunion event on 21 June 2025, Pat joined virtually. His smile didn’t change a bit. It sparked his sincere love for the world of advocacy and human rights. His genuine care for humanity and value of solidarity have taught us one important lesson in life: critical voices and empathy are the perfect combination for true activism.

Through Zoom, Pat told us his memorable encounters with Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur), one of the founders of INFID. He also mentioned how he connected with many Indonesian activists through INFID.

“INFID gave me and many Australian NGOs the opportunity to work together with like-minded Indonesians on developments, on human rights,” said Pat during INFID’s 40th anniversary gathering event.

Dear Pat, INFID is honored to have crossed paths with you. You’ve shown us to never stop believing in humanity. May your spirit of solidarity and humanity continue to inspire collective courage, principled action, and unwavering commitment to justice across generations. Your legacy reminds us that genuine change is rooted in empathy, dignity, and the relentless pursuit of a more equal world.