Sustainable Tourism and Justice: Balancing Economic Development with Environmental and Social Justice in Indonesia’s Tourism Policies

Abstract

As Indonesia’s tourism sector continues to grow, the need to balance economic development with environmental sustainability and social equity becomes increasingly urgent. This paper critically examines Indonesia’s national tourism policies, evaluating their effectiveness in fostering economic growth while ensuring the protection of the environment and promoting social justice. By analyzing the interplay between economic development, environmental degradation, and social justice concerns in popular tourist destinations like Bali, Lombok, and Java, this study identifies key gaps in policy and practice. The research draws on policy analysis, interviews with tourism stakeholders, and environmental data to explore how current tourism strategies contribute to or mitigate the negative impacts of mass tourism. The paper proposes a framework for sustainable tourism that integrates economic, environmental, and social justice goals, advocating for policies that promote equitable growth, protect natural resources, and empower marginalized communities.