The Indonesian Journal of Sociolegal Development
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026): The Indonesian Journal of Sociolegal Development, March 2026

Access to Justice for Coastal Communities Affected by Reclamation Projects in Indonesia

Sisilia Gunawan Saridevi (Pancasila University)
Tajuddin Ahmad Soleh Muhammad Ehsan (MARA University of Technology)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Mar 2026

Abstract

Coastal reclamation projects have become an important component of Indonesia’s infrastructure and urban development agenda. However, these projects frequently generate social, environmental, and legal challenges for coastal communities whose livelihoods depend on marine and coastal resources. This study analyzes access to justice for coastal communities affected by reclamation projects in Indonesia through a sociolegal perspective. Employing qualitative sociolegal methods, the research examines the extent to which affected communities can participate in decision-making processes and seek remedies for perceived harms. The findings reveal that access to justice is often constrained by limited legal knowledge, unequal bargaining power, procedural complexities, and restricted access to legal representation. Environmental impact assessments and public consultation mechanisms frequently fail to provide meaningful participation opportunities for local residents. As a result, communities encounter difficulties in protecting their economic interests, cultural identity, and environmental rights. The study further demonstrates that legal frameworks governing reclamation projects contain important procedural safeguards, yet their implementation remains inconsistent across different regions. Strengthening community participation, legal aid services, and transparency in development planning can significantly improve access to justice outcomes. The research argues that sociolegal approaches are necessary to understand the broader social impacts of reclamation policies beyond formal legal compliance. The study concludes that ensuring equitable access to justice requires integrating human rights principles, environmental governance, and community empowerment into coastal development policies. Such measures are essential for achieving sustainable development while safeguarding the rights and welfare of affected coastal populations.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJSLD

Publisher

Subject

Description

The Indonesian Journal of Sociolegal Development (e-ISSN: 3164-3558) is an interdisciplinary peer-reviewed journal published by JUSTISIA GLOBAL EDUKASI in online format two times per year (March & September). The journal is dedicated to the study of law, society, and development in the Indonesian ...