Konflik Hutan dan Dinamika Sosio-Ekonomi Masyarakat Adat Besipae Pasca-Eksklusi di Nusa Tengara Timur

Innosensia Emerensiana Isavela Ndiki Satu (Communication Science Department, Widya Mandira Catholic University, Jl. Achmad Yani 50-52, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, 85361, Indonesia)
Fransiska Desiana Setyaningsih (Communication Science Department, Widya Mandira Catholic University, Jl. Achmad Yani 50-52, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, 85361, Indonesia)
Didimus Dedi Dhosa (Government Science Department, Widya Mandira Catholic University, Jl. Achmad Yani 50-52, Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, 85361, Indonesia)

Sodality: Jurnal Sosiologi Pedesaan
Vol. 13 No. 2 (2025): Sodality: Jurnal Sosiologi Pedesaan

The study aims to explain the social and economic dynamics of the community living in the Besipae customary forest area of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), particularly after their eviction by the provincial government through the use of violent means. This research employs a qualitative-critical approach, utilizing three data collection methods: in-depth interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), and observation. By using a critical perspective, the study reveals several key findings. First, the conflicting ownership status of the forest limits the community’s ability to access forest products, restricting their opportunities to increase their economic income. Second, despite being evicted from the forest area and having their homes destroyed, some community members have chosen to return to live in the forest. Third, the community has endured long-term trauma associated with extracting forest products, as they continue to advocate for the recognition of their forest as indigenous community property amidst government domination. This situation ultimately compels them to participate as migrant labour in the predatory neoliberal global market.