Managing Complex Conflicts in Indonesia in 2024 and Peacebuilding in 2025 By Fadli Usman

Managing Complex Conflicts in Indonesia in 2024 and Peacebuilding in 2025 By Fadli Usman

Abstract

Indonesia's conflict landscape in 2024 is characterized by multifaceted political, agrarian, mining, and social challenges. Political tensions are heightened by power struggles and corruption concerns, while agrarian disputes, particularly over land, involve confrontations between communities and corporate entities. Social conflicts, compounded by economic inequality and systemic discrimination, further undermine stability. This paper examines these conflicts within a framework of peacebuilding, drawing on theoretical insights from Johan Galtung, Michael W. Doyle, John Burton, Alexander Wendt, and Mary B. Anderson's "Do No Harm" approach. By employing conflict prevention mechanisms, fostering inclusive dialogues, and implementing reforms based on the principles of social justice and human needs, Indonesia has the potential for peace in 2025. This study identifies practical strategies for overcoming conflict, enhancing democratic governance, and promoting long-term peacebuilding efforts.

Introduction

Indonesia, as a dynamic and diverse archipelago, is grappling with several interrelated conflicts in 2024, spanning political, agrarian, and socio-economic domains. The underlying drivers of these conflicts—inequalities in power, land, and resources—are compounded by structural issues such as corruption, human rights violations, and social marginalization. In light of these challenges, Indonesia faces an urgent need for comprehensive peacebuilding strategies that address both the root causes and manifestations of conflict. This paper explores Indonesia’s conflict landscape, provides an analysis of theoretical approaches to peace, and outlines practical steps for peacebuilding that could guide the nation towards a more stable and equitable future by 2025.

Political Conflict

The political landscape in Indonesia has been marked by significant unrest following the controversial 2024 presidential elections, in which Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka emerged victorious. The electoral process was marred by allegations of fraud, nepotism, and undue influence, leading to widespread protests. These tensions underscore deeper systemic issues of political power concentration, elite control, and the erosion of democratic institutions. To mitigate political conflict, this paper argues for a more transparent electoral process, enhanced checks and balances, and the promotion of inclusive governance. These efforts can help rebuild trust in political institutions and address the grievances of marginalized populations.

Agrarian and Mining Sector Conflicts

Agrarian conflicts remain a significant challenge in Indonesia, with ongoing disputes over land tenure and resource use. Approximately 241 agrarian conflicts, affecting over 600,000 hectares, have been reported, with the majority involving indigenous communities, smallholder farmers, and large corporations, particularly in the mining and plantation sectors. These conflicts often lead to environmental degradation, displacement, and socio-economic unrest. A systemic approach to agrarian reform is necessary to resolve land disputes, redistribute land equitably, and implement sustainable practices that respect the rights of local communities. This paper advocates for a more inclusive policy framework, incorporating the voices of marginalized groups and ensuring that national development projects are aligned with social justice principles.

Human Rights and Gender-Based Violence

Human rights violations, including cases of abuse by security forces, remain pervasive in Indonesia. In 2024, there were 2,305 reported cases of human rights violations, with women disproportionately affected by gender-based violence. The lack of accountability for perpetrators and the inadequate protection of vulnerable populations exacerbate these violations. Addressing human rights abuses requires a robust legal framework, greater institutional accountability, and a concerted effort to protect vulnerable communities, particularly women and children. This paper emphasizes the need for stronger human rights institutions and effective enforcement mechanisms to combat gender-based violence and ensure justice for all citizens.

Potential for Hosting Refugees from Other Countries

Indonesia also faces challenges in hosting refugees from other countries, such as the Rohingya from Myanmar. In 2024, Indonesia has demonstrated a commitment to helping refugees by providing temporary shelter and humanitarian assistance. However, local communities, particularly in Aceh, are confronted with legal challenges, as the difference in legal interpretations has led to local communities being charged with trafficking crimes.

National Development Projects and Sustainability

The development of national strategic projects, such as the construction of Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara, and the food estate project aimed at achieving food self-sufficiency, has faced numerous challenges. Budget cuts, delays, and past failures have raised concerns about the viability of these projects. However, these challenges also present an opportunity to rethink development strategies and prioritize sustainability. National development must be more inclusive and environmentally conscious, engaging local communities and aligning projects with sustainable development goals. By adopting a holistic approach that balances economic growth with environmental protection and social equity, Indonesia can ensure that its development projects contribute to long-term peacebuilding.

Theories on Achieving Peace

Several theoretical frameworks offer valuable insights into how peace can be achieved, both within Indonesia and globally. Theories of peace emphasize different aspects of conflict resolution, from structural violence to international relations and human needs. The following frameworks are particularly relevant to understanding and achieving peace in Indonesia:

1. Johan Galtung’s theory distinguishes between negative peace, which is the absence of direct violence, and positive peace, which is the presence of social justice and equality. Achieving positive peace requires addressing structural violence and ensuring that inequalities in resources, access, and power are mitigated. In Indonesia, the goal should be to not only cease violent conflict but also address the root causes of injustice, such as economic disparity and social exclusion.
2. Liberal Peace Theory (Doyle, 1986) underscores the role of democratic governance, economic interdependence, and international institutions in fostering peace. Liberal peace theory posits that democracies are less likely to engage in conflict with one another, and economic ties between nations can create mutual benefits that reduce the likelihood of war. For Indonesia, strengthening democratic institutions, improving transparency, and fostering economic cooperation both domestically and internationally could play a pivotal role in sustaining peace.
3. Constructivist Theory (Wendt, 1999) focuses on the role of social norms, identities, and discourses in shaping state behavior. According to constructivist theory, changing the way groups perceive each other through dialogue and mutual understanding can lead to more peaceful interactions. In Indonesia, fostering intergroup dialogue and promoting shared narratives of cooperation and peace can help reduce hostilities and build trust among diverse communities.
4. Human Needs Theory (Burton, 1990) posits that conflicts arise when basic human needs—such as security, identity, and recognition—are unmet. Peace can be achieved by addressing these needs through inclusive policies that ensure individuals feel valued and respected. In Indonesia, this approach emphasizes the importance of social inclusion, economic equity, and the protection of individual rights as a foundation for lasting peace.
5. Mary B. Anderson's "Do No Harm" approach is essential in understanding the impact of peacebuilding interventions. This framework emphasizes that interventions should not exacerbate existing conflicts or create new tensions. In Indonesia, ensuring that peacebuilding efforts are sensitive to local contexts and do not inadvertently fuel divisions is crucial. The "Do No Harm" framework advocates for a careful analysis of how interventions affect the social fabric and calls for strategies that promote positive change without causing harm.

Opportunities for Peace in 2025

Despite the complexities of Indonesia’s current conflicts, there are several opportunities for peacebuilding in 2025. Early identification of conflict indicators, such as rising socio-economic disparities and ethnic tensions, can help prevent escalation. Efforts to improve resource distribution, promote social cohesion, and address systemic inequalities can lay the groundwork for peace. The government’s commitment to democratic reforms, along with international support for peacebuilding initiatives, can also create a conducive environment for long-term stability.

Practical Steps for Achieving Peace in Indonesia by 2025

1. To address political grievances and rebuild trust, it is crucial to enhance transparency in electoral processes, reduce corruption, and ensure that governance is inclusive of all societal groups (The Diplomat, 2025).
2. Policies that address economic disparities, reduce poverty, and promote equitable growth are essential for mitigating conflict. A focus on inclusive economic development can prevent the resource-driven tensions that often lead to conflict (China-Global South Project, 2025).
3. Encouraging inclusive dialogue and mediation processes involving all stakeholders—government, civil society, and marginalized groups—can help address the underlying causes of conflict and build consensus (The Jakarta Post, 2025).
4. Reforms aimed at enhancing legal protections for human rights, combating gender-based violence, and ensuring justice for all citizens are critical for establishing a just society (TutorialsPoint, 2025).

References

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Galtung, J. (1969). Violence, Peace, and Peace Research. Journal of Peace Research, 6(3), 167-191.

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