Human Rights and Labor Justice in Indonesia’s Tourism Industry: A Case Study of Worker Exploitation in Bali’s Hospitality Sector

Abstract

The tourism sector is a major contributor to Indonesia's economy, particularly in high-demand areas like Bali, yet the labor conditions in this industry often reflect significant exploitation and economic injustice. This paper explores the labor rights issues faced by workers in Bali’s hospitality industry, focusing on wage disparities, lack of job security, and poor working conditions. Through a case study of Bali’s tourist hotspots, the research examines how international tourism chains, local businesses, and government policies contribute to labor injustices. Drawing on primary data from worker interviews, labor rights organizations, and industry reports, this study highlights how tourism-driven economic growth often fails to translate into better working conditions for local employees. The paper argues for stronger labor protections, more equitable wage distribution, and the implementation of international labor standards within the tourism industry. It also calls for more comprehensive enforcement of existing labor laws and policies to ensure that tourism development benefits workers as much as it does other stakeholders.