When the Sea is No Longer Free: Fishing-Space Contestation and Legal Protection for Small-Scale Fishers in Demak Regency
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65815/1m5tnj37Keywords:
small-scale fishers, fishing space, coastal communities, legal protection, socio-legalAbstract
The coastal areas of Demak Regency are increasingly exposed to complex pressures arising from spatial transformation, coastal economic activities, infrastructure development, and ecological changes affecting the livelihoods of small-scale fishers. These conditions raise legal concerns regarding access to fishing grounds, livelihood security, and the effectiveness of state protection for coastal communities that remain highly dependent on marine resources. This study aims to examine the legal position of small-scale fishers in the contestation over fishing space and to identify gaps between legal protection frameworks and the actual governance of coastal areas. The study employs a socio-legal approach combining statutory analysis with empirical research through interviews with fishers, local government officials, and relevant stakeholders. The analysis focuses on the interaction between marine spatial policies, economic interests, and the capacity of fishing communities to maintain access to their livelihoods. The study argues that legal protection for small-scale fishers should not be measured solely by the existence of protective regulations, but also by their meaningful participation in decision-making and their guaranteed access to fishing space. Strengthening protection therefore requires participatory and transparent coastal governance that recognizes the social and ecological conditions of local fishing communities.
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