Indonesian Climate Justice Review
Indonesian Climate Justice Review (e-ISSN: 3164-2284) is published by COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA, first published in 2024, and issued quarterly in January, April, July, and October in online format (electronic journal). It is a peer-reviewed, open-access academic journal dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary scholarship on climate justice, with a particular focus on Indonesia and the Global South. The journal provides an academic platform for scholars, researchers, legal practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders to examine the intersections of climate change, environmental law, human rights, indigenous peoples’ rights, socio-economic inequality, and sustainable development from a justice-oriented perspective. The journal publishes original research articles, review articles, conceptual studies, policy analyses, case studies, and other scholarly works addressing climate governance, environmental policies, legal frameworks, climate adaptation and mitigation, environmental justice, indigenous and local community rights, sustainable development, and the protection of vulnerable and marginalized communities. The journal welcomes interdisciplinary contributions from environmental law, human rights, political ecology, development studies, climate science, international law, economics, sociology, indigenous studies, and related fields. Particular emphasis is placed on community engagement, participatory justice, equitable climate action, inclusive legal frameworks, community-based resilience, and evidence-based policy reform. The journal applies a double-anonymous peer-review process and an Open Access Policy, providing free and immediate access to all published articles. Copyright is retained by the authors, and all articles are published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) License.
Articles
55 Documents
Ecofeminism Amid Crisis: Centering Women in Indonesia’s Climate Justice Movement
Dian Latifiani;
Ubaidillah Kamal;
Rini Fidiyani;
Mutmainah Nur Qoiri;
Didik Purnomo
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 1 No. 4 (2024): October, 2024
Publisher : COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA
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DOI: 10.65815/ssskv522
This paper explores the role of ecofeminism in Indonesia’s climate justice movement, emphasizing the pivotal role of women in advocating for environmental sustainability and social equity amidst the escalating climate crisis. Ecofeminism, which connects environmental degradation with gender inequality, provides a lens through which to understand the disproportionate impacts of climate change on women, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. In Indonesia, women—especially those in agriculture, fishing, and indigenous communities—are on the frontlines of climate impacts, from extreme weather events to resource scarcity. This study examines the ways in which Indonesian women, both individually and through grassroots organizations, are driving climate justice initiatives that challenge both environmental exploitation and gender oppression. Through interviews, case studies, and an analysis of ecofeminist activism, the research highlights how women’s leadership in local climate adaptation, conservation, and policy advocacy is central to building a more just and resilient society. Findings suggest that ecofeminist perspectives are often sidelined in national climate discourse, with policies frequently neglecting the intersectional nature of climate vulnerability and the contributions of women in environmental leadership. This paper argues that a truly inclusive climate justice movement must center the voices and experiences of women, integrating ecofeminist principles into policy frameworks to address both ecological and gendered inequalities. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of how ecofeminism can inform and strengthen climate justice movements in Indonesia, urging a rethinking of climate policy that elevates women’s roles in shaping a sustainable future.
From Global to Local: Translating Climate Justice Principles into National Policy
Abdul Basith;
Karan Malhotra
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): January, 2025
Publisher : COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA
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DOI: 10.65815/x1rdx443
This paper investigates the challenges and opportunities of translating global climate justice principles into actionable national policies, with a particular focus on Indonesia. As the climate crisis intensifies, the need for policies that not only address environmental impacts but also promote social equity and justice has become increasingly urgent. Climate justice emphasizes the disproportionate burdens borne by vulnerable communities, including indigenous peoples, women, and low-income groups, and calls for fair and inclusive solutions to mitigate and adapt to climate change. This study critically examines how Indonesia has incorporated climate justice principles into its national climate policies, such as its emissions reduction commitments, adaptation strategies, and disaster management frameworks. Using a combination of policy analysis, interviews with key stakeholders, and case studies of specific climate projects, the research highlights both the successes and limitations in embedding climate justice into national governance. Findings indicate that while Indonesia has made progress in acknowledging climate justice in its rhetoric and international commitments, the translation of these principles into local-level practices remains uneven, often limited by political, economic, and institutional barriers. The paper argues that effective climate policy must prioritize the voices of marginalized communities and integrate social justice alongside environmental sustainability to ensure equitable and inclusive climate action. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on climate justice by providing insights into how national policies can be reimagined to reflect both global principles and local realities.
Climate Justice in the Tourism Industry: Coastal Impacts and Community Rights
Sushmita Gupta;
Meliana Putri
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): January, 2025
Publisher : COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA
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DOI: 10.65815/rdd5b784
This paper examines the intersection of climate justice and the tourism industry in coastal regions of Indonesia, focusing on how climate change impacts both the environment and the rights of local communities. Coastal areas, which are highly dependent on tourism for economic development, are increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and habitat loss. These environmental changes not only threaten the livelihoods of communities that rely on coastal resources but also exacerbate social inequalities, particularly for marginalized groups such as indigenous peoples and women. This study analyzes the role of the tourism industry in both contributing to and mitigating climate change, as well as its influence on local climate adaptation and resilience efforts. Through case studies, policy analysis, and interviews with stakeholders in affected coastal areas, the research explores how tourism-driven development has often neglected the rights and needs of local communities, while also overlooking the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable groups. Findings suggest that while there is growing awareness of the need for sustainable tourism practices, the industry often prioritizes economic gains over the protection of community rights and environmental integrity. The paper argues that a climate justice approach to tourism must prioritize community-led adaptation strategies, promote equitable distribution of benefits, and ensure that local populations are at the center of decision-making processes. This research contributes to the growing body of climate justice literature by offering insights into how the tourism industry can better align with the principles of environmental and social equity in the face of climate change.
Climate Justice in an Age of Democratic Decline: Civic Space and Environmental Resistance
Mukhlis Arifin;
Pratama Herry Herlambang;
Andi Zakaria;
Bùi Hoàng Nam;
Huang Wei
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): January, 2025
Publisher : COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA
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DOI: 10.65815/bh22td17
This paper explores the relationship between climate justice, civic space, and environmental resistance in the context of democratic decline, with a particular focus on Indonesia. As climate change intensifies, the struggle for environmental justice becomes increasingly intertwined with broader issues of political freedom, human rights, and democratic governance. In countries like Indonesia, where environmental degradation is often driven by extractive industries and unsustainable development, civic space for environmental activism is shrinking, especially as democratic institutions face growing challenges from authoritarian tendencies. This study examines how democratic backsliding affects the ability of civil society, activists, and marginalized communities to engage in climate justice movements and resist environmentally destructive policies. Through case studies, interviews with environmental activists, and analysis of political trends, the research reveals that the decline in democratic freedoms, such as restrictions on freedom of assembly, press, and speech, has led to the criminalization of environmental resistance and increased risks for those fighting for climate justice. The paper argues that climate justice must not only address environmental and social inequities but also actively protect democratic principles that allow for meaningful public participation and environmental advocacy. By examining the intersections of climate change, civic space, and democratic governance, this research offers a nuanced perspective on how environmental resistance can continue to thrive even in the face of political repression, and how climate justice movements must adapt to an era of democratic decline.
Assessing Climate Justice Within Indonesia’s Sustainable Development Framework
Zhu Rong;
María José Fernández Silva;
Mohammad Rafique Ahmed
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): January, 2025
Publisher : COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA
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DOI: 10.65815/2f4nyj25
This paper assesses the integration of climate justice within Indonesia's sustainable development framework, focusing on how the country's development policies address both environmental sustainability and social equity in the face of climate change. Indonesia, as one of the world's most vulnerable countries to climate impacts, faces significant challenges in balancing rapid economic growth with the need to mitigate climate risks and ensure social justice. Climate justice, which emphasizes the disproportionate impacts of climate change on marginalized communities, requires that policy responses prioritize not only environmental sustainability but also the rights and well-being of vulnerable groups. This study critically examines Indonesia’s national development plans, climate policies, and climate adaptation strategies to assess how well they incorporate climate justice principles. Through a combination of policy analysis, interviews with key stakeholders, and case studies of climate-related projects, the research highlights the gaps and opportunities in Indonesia's approach to integrating social equity into its climate agenda. Findings suggest that while there is growing recognition of climate justice in the rhetoric of national policies, the practical application of these principles often falls short, particularly in addressing the needs of indigenous peoples, rural populations, and women. The paper argues that achieving true climate justice requires a more comprehensive approach that prioritizes both environmental and social dimensions of development, with greater focus on inclusivity, participation, and long-term resilience. This research contributes to the discourse on climate justice by offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for embedding justice-oriented policies within Indonesia’s sustainable development framework.
Youth for the Earth: The Role of Young Activists in Indonesia’s Climate Justice Movement
Achmad Faqih;
Felipe Santiago Díaz Rojas
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): January, 2025
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DOI: 10.65815/tsf9xy65
This paper explores the pivotal role of youth in Indonesia's climate justice movement, highlighting how young activists are driving transformative change in the fight against climate change. As one of the most climate-vulnerable nations in the world, Indonesia is witnessing a surge in youth-led climate activism, with young people increasingly taking a stand to address environmental degradation and social inequality. This study examines the ways in which young activists are challenging both environmental injustice and the inequitable impacts of climate change, particularly in marginalized communities. Drawing on case studies, interviews with youth leaders, and an analysis of youth-driven campaigns, the research highlights how young people are reshaping the climate justice discourse by advocating for policies that integrate environmental sustainability with social equity. The paper finds that youth movements in Indonesia are not only raising awareness about climate change but are also mobilizing grassroots actions, organizing protests, and influencing policy debates at local, national, and international levels. However, challenges such as limited access to decision-making processes, political resistance, and a lack of institutional support remain barriers to their full participation. The research argues that the youth-led climate justice movement is essential in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future, emphasizing the need for greater support for youth inclusion in climate policymaking. This study contributes to the broader conversation on climate justice by illustrating how young activists are central to advancing climate solutions that prioritize both ecological and social justice.
Environmental Justice and Land Rights: Analyzing the Impact of the 1945 Constitution and the Law on Agrarian Reform in Climate Adaptation Policies
Auliya Rochman;
Rossa Delima;
Vandana Sharma;
Liu Zhi Qing
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): April, 2025
Publisher : COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA
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DOI: 10.65815/d18ewa66
This paper analyzes the intersection of environmental justice, land rights, and climate adaptation policies in Indonesia, focusing on the impact of the 1945 Constitution and the Law on Agrarian Reform (UU No. 5/1960) in shaping land use and access amidst climate change challenges. As Indonesia faces escalating climate impacts such as flooding, droughts, and coastal erosion, land rights become a crucial element in both environmental justice and adaptation strategies. The 1945 Constitution, which enshrines land as a state asset with the potential for distribution to achieve social justice, and the Agrarian Reform Law, which aims to redistribute land for the benefit of landless peasants, are key legal frameworks that govern land use and ownership. This study examines how these legal instruments intersect with climate adaptation policies, particularly in the context of marginalized communities that are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation and land dispossession. Using a combination of legal analysis, case studies, and interviews with affected communities, the research explores how land tenure systems, agrarian reform policies, and climate adaptation measures can be harmonized to promote both environmental sustainability and social equity. Findings indicate that while the 1945 Constitution and the Agrarian Reform Law offer potential tools for advancing land justice, their implementation often falls short, particularly in the face of growing pressures from development projects, deforestation, and corporate land grabs. The paper argues that integrating environmental justice into land rights policies is essential for effective climate adaptation, particularly for vulnerable populations who rely on secure land tenure for their livelihoods and resilience.
Climate Change and the Law: Assessing Indonesia’s 2009 Environmental Protection and Management Law in Promoting Climate Justice
Md. Shariful Islam;
Muhammad Adam Farizki
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): April, 2025
Publisher : COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA
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DOI: 10.65815/44w15v63
This paper assesses the effectiveness of Indonesia’s 2009 Environmental Protection and Management Law (UU No. 32/2009) in promoting climate justice, with a focus on its capacity to address the interconnected challenges of environmental degradation, social equity, and climate change. As climate change accelerates, the need for robust legal frameworks to ensure both environmental sustainability and social justice has never been more urgent. The 2009 law, which outlines the legal basis for environmental protection and resource management, aims to balance development with environmental conservation and to ensure the rights of affected communities. This study critically analyzes the law’s provisions related to climate change adaptation, mitigation, and environmental justice, examining how effectively it promotes equity for marginalized communities, such as indigenous peoples, rural populations, and low-income groups, who are disproportionately impacted by environmental changes. Through policy analysis, legal review, and interviews with legal experts, activists, and affected communities, the research evaluates the implementation and impact of the law in the context of climate justice. Findings suggest that while the law provides important legal structures for environmental protection and climate adaptation, its effectiveness is undermined by gaps in enforcement, lack of political will, and insufficient integration of climate justice principles into local governance. The paper argues that for Indonesia to achieve meaningful climate justice, the 2009 law must be strengthened through more inclusive and equitable policy frameworks, enhanced public participation, and a more rigorous commitment to the rights of vulnerable populations.
From the Forestry Law to Forest Fires: Evaluating Indonesia’s 2014 Forestry Law in Protecting Climate Vulnerable Communities
I Gede Sutama;
Dian Prasetya;
Tejaswi Kumar;
Md. Iqbal Hossain
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): April, 2025
Publisher : COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA
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DOI: 10.65815/f2zzrq57
This paper evaluates the effectiveness of Indonesia’s 2014 Forestry Law (UU No. 41/1999) in protecting climate-vulnerable communities, with a particular focus on the links between forest management, land use policies, and climate change adaptation. Indonesia's forests are among the most biodiverse in the world, but are also critically threatened by illegal logging, land conversion, and destructive practices such as slash-and-burn, which contribute significantly to carbon emissions and exacerbate climate impacts. The 2014 revision of the Forestry Law aims to provide a regulatory framework for sustainable forest management, yet its ability to protect vulnerable communities, especially those dependent on forest resources for their livelihoods, remains contested. This study critically analyzes how the law addresses both environmental protection and the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities who face increased exposure to climate hazards, such as forest fires and flooding, due to deforestation and poor land-use practices. By examining the law’s implementation, the role of local governments, and the experiences of affected communities, this research assesses whether the law has succeeded in promoting sustainable forest management while ensuring that the most vulnerable populations are not further marginalized. Findings suggest that despite progress in forest governance, the law’s implementation often neglects community participation and fails to curb land use practices that contribute to climate vulnerability. The paper argues for an integrated approach that combines legal reforms with community-based initiatives to ensure that both forests and climate-vulnerable communities are better protected in Indonesia’s climate policy framework.
Climate Justice or Green Colonialism? The Role of the 2014 Plantation Law in Addressing Indigenous Land Rights and Environmental Exploitation
Khadijah Salma;
Rina Wiratama
Indonesian Climate Justice Review Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): April, 2025
Publisher : COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA
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DOI: 10.65815/fcqz1r98
This paper examines the implications of Indonesia’s 2014 Plantation Law (UU No. 39/2014) for climate justice, focusing on its effects on indigenous land rights and the broader issue of environmental exploitation. As Indonesia continues to be a major producer of palm oil and other plantation crops, the expansion of industrial agriculture has led to large-scale deforestation, land grabs, and the displacement of indigenous communities. The 2014 Plantation Law aims to regulate the plantation industry, but its potential to address the twin challenges of environmental degradation and the violation of indigenous land rights remains highly contested. This study analyzes the law’s provisions in relation to climate justice, particularly in terms of ensuring that the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities are upheld in the face of expanding industrial plantations. Through a combination of legal analysis, case studies, and interviews with indigenous leaders and environmental activists, the research explores how the law addresses (or fails to address) the environmental and social impacts of plantation-driven deforestation, land conflicts, and loss of biodiversity. Findings suggest that while the law includes provisions aimed at protecting the environment, it often prioritizes economic interests over the rights of vulnerable communities and the preservation of ecosystems. The paper argues that the 2014 Plantation Law risks perpetuating a form of "green colonialism," where climate and environmental concerns are used to justify land dispossession and exploitation, rather than addressing the root causes of environmental harm. The research calls for more inclusive, rights-based frameworks that balance economic development with the protection of indigenous territories and the environment, ensuring that true climate justice is achieved.