Indigenous Land Rights and Infrastructure Development in Papua: Assessing the Human Rights Implications of Indonesia's National Development Projects
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65815/6hc4ev52Keywords:
Indigenous rights, Papua, land rights, infrastructure development, human rightsAbstract
Large-scale infrastructure development in Papua has been promoted as part of Indonesia's broader strategy to improve connectivity, stimulate economic development, and reduce regional disparities. However, infrastructure projects may significantly affect Indigenous communities whose livelihoods, cultural identities, and social relationships are closely connected to customary territories. This article examines the human rights implications of infrastructure development in Papua, focusing on Indigenous land rights, participation, and access to remedies. Using normative juridical and policy analysis, the study evaluates Indonesian land law, Indigenous rights protection, development policies, and relevant administrative mechanisms. The article argues that formal development authorization does not by itself resolve questions concerning the rights of Indigenous communities affected by projects. Meaningful participation, recognition of customary land interests, adequate compensation, livelihood protection, and accessible remedies are essential components of a rights-compatible development framework. The study proposes a human rights-based approach to infrastructure governance that integrates Indigenous participation into project planning and monitoring. It further argues that development policies should assess cumulative social and cultural impacts rather than focusing exclusively on physical infrastructure outcomes. Strengthening procedural and substantive safeguards would help reconcile national development objectives with Indonesia's constitutional and international human rights commitments.
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