Agrarian Conflict and the Right to Food in Indonesia: Human Rights Implications of Large-Scale Agricultural Land Conversion

Abstract

Large-scale land conversion for plantations, infrastructure, industrial development, and other commercial purposes may affect rural communities whose livelihoods depend on agricultural land. Beyond property disputes, such conflicts may have consequences for food security, livelihood protection, and the right to an adequate standard of living. This article examines the relationship between agrarian conflict and the right to food in Indonesia. Using normative juridical and policy analysis, the study evaluates agrarian regulation, land acquisition, food security policy, and human rights principles. The article argues that land governance should consider the broader livelihood and food-security consequences of land conversion rather than treating disputes exclusively as questions of formal ownership or compensation. The study proposes a rights-based land governance framework incorporating meaningful consultation, livelihood impact assessments, food-security considerations, fair compensation, and accessible remedies. Particular attention is given to rural communities whose dependence on agricultural land may not be adequately reflected in formal land documentation. The article concludes that protecting the right to food requires stronger integration between agrarian policy, development planning, and human rights protection.