Contemporary Issues on Indonesian Human Rights Law and Policy
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): January, 2026

Indigenous Land Rights and Infrastructure Development in Papua: Assessing the Human Rights Implications of Indonesia's National Development Projects

Tubagus Ahmad Sakti (Universitas Muhammadiyah Sorong)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Jan 2026

Abstract

Large-scale infrastructure development in Papua has been promoted as part of Indonesia's broader strategy to improve connectivity, stimulate economic development, and reduce regional disparities. However, infrastructure projects may significantly affect Indigenous communities whose livelihoods, cultural identities, and social relationships are closely connected to customary territories. This article examines the human rights implications of infrastructure development in Papua, focusing on Indigenous land rights, participation, and access to remedies. Using normative juridical and policy analysis, the study evaluates Indonesian land law, Indigenous rights protection, development policies, and relevant administrative mechanisms. The article argues that formal development authorization does not by itself resolve questions concerning the rights of Indigenous communities affected by projects. Meaningful participation, recognition of customary land interests, adequate compensation, livelihood protection, and accessible remedies are essential components of a rights-compatible development framework. The study proposes a human rights-based approach to infrastructure governance that integrates Indigenous participation into project planning and monitoring. It further argues that development policies should assess cumulative social and cultural impacts rather than focusing exclusively on physical infrastructure outcomes. Strengthening procedural and substantive safeguards would help reconcile national development objectives with Indonesia's constitutional and international human rights commitments.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

humanrights

Publisher

Subject

Description

Contemporary Issues on Indonesian Human Rights Law and Policy (e-ISSN: 3164-5585) is a peer-reviewed academic journal focusing on human rights law and policy in Indonesia, with relevance to Southeast Asian contexts. The journal examines the legal frameworks, policies, institutions, and mechanisms ...