Academic Discussion on the Exclusion of Indigenous Communities in Indonesia’s Coastal and Small Island Areas

The Marine Science Study Program, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Bengkulu, in collaboration with Akar Global Initiative, held an academic discussion on Indigenous Peoples in Indonesia on Tuesday, 21 January 2025, at Meeting Room 3, the Rectorate Building of Universitas Bengkulu.

The event featured a sub-workshop entitled “The Exclusion of Indigenous Peoples in Coastal and Small Island Areas within the Framework of Indigenous Peoples Recognition in Indonesia.” The discussion aimed to examine current challenges related to the recognition and protection of indigenous communities, particularly those residing in coastal and small island regions.

The discussion was attended by academics, researchers, and students, and featured Dr. Dedi S. Adhuri, Principal Researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and Ir. Zamdial, M.Si, Lecturer of the Marine Science Study Program, Universitas Bengkulu, as speakers. The session was moderated by An Nisa Nurul Suci, S.Si., M.Si.

Through this academic forum, participants engaged in critical dialogue on policy frameworks, governance issues, and development practices that may contribute to the exclusion of indigenous peoples from their territorial and resource rights. The discussion also highlighted the importance of inclusive policies and evidence-based approaches in supporting indigenous communities in coastal and small island areas.

This activity is expected to strengthen the role of higher education institutions in facilitating academic discourse and research-based advocacy, as well as to enhance collaboration among stakeholders in promoting equitable recognition and protection of indigenous peoples in Indonesia.