Urban Resilience or Environmental Racism? The Unequal Impact of Flooding in Jakarta’s Lower-Income Areas

Abstract

This research examines the unequal impacts of flooding on lower-income areas in Jakarta, Indonesia, exploring the intersection of urban resilience and environmental racism. Jakarta, one of the most rapidly urbanizing cities in Southeast Asia, is highly vulnerable to flooding due to a combination of climate change, poor urban planning, and socio-economic inequality. The study focuses on how flooding disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly in low-income neighborhoods, where residents face greater risks due to inadequate infrastructure, limited access to resources, and historical neglect by local authorities. Using a combination of field surveys, interviews with residents, urban planners, and environmental experts, the research investigates the ways in which flooding exacerbates existing social inequalities, with a particular focus on the structural and racial factors contributing to the vulnerability of these communities. The findings highlight how systemic issues such as spatial segregation, discriminatory zoning policies, and lack of investment in low-income areas lead to an uneven distribution of flood risks. The study argues that while Jakarta’s urban resilience strategies may focus on broader city-wide measures, they often overlook the specific needs and rights of vulnerable populations. This research contributes to the growing discourse on environmental justice by shedding light on how climate impacts like flooding can perpetuate social and racial inequalities. The study concludes with policy recommendations to promote more inclusive and equitable flood management strategies that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities in Jakarta.