<![CDATA[Stateless migrants in border areas pose significant challenges to public governance, particularly in terms of legal recognition and access to public services. This study aims to analyze the characteristics, dynamics, obstacles, and collaborative handling model of stateless migrants in Bitung City. A qualitative case study approach was employed, with data collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and document analysis, supported by ATLAS.ti. Informants were selected using purposive sampling based on their authority, experience, and direct involvement in managing stateless migrants. Data accuracy was ensured through source and method triangulation by comparing information obtained from different informants, observations, and relevant documents. Data processing and analysis involved transcribing and organizing the data, conducting open coding, grouping codes into thematic categories, identifying relationships among themes, interpreting the findings and drawing conclusions. The results show that stateless migrants in Bitung are predominantly long-term residents who are socially integrated but lack formal legal status. Their condition is shaped by prolonged verification processes, fragmented institutional coordination, and socio-economic constraints. Key obstacles include data fragmentation, limited inter-agency coordination, and low migrant participation in administrative procedures. This study finds that the main challenge lies in weak institutional coordination rather than administrative capacity alone. Therefore, a collaborative handling model based on coordination, administrative integration, and community engagement is proposed. Strengthening coordination is essential to improve verification processes and ensure more effective and inclusive migration governance in border areas.]]>
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