Indigenous women, forest, and the battle for livelihood rights of Dayak Benawan in Indonesia

Abstract

This research delves into the pressing issue of indigenous peoples' livelihoods in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, highlighting the imminent threat they face. The study underscores the urgent need for government intervention to safeguard the rights of indigenous communities, which are consistently eroded in the name of development. This erosion stems from government-sanctioned land concessions, biased policies, and the involvement of capital interests, all of which disproportionately affect indigenous groups. Employing an ethnographic approach, the research aims to elucidate the intricate dynamics at the nexus of gender, indigenous identity, and environmental justice. Through extensive interviews and observations, the study examines the distinct roles played by indigenous women in forest conservation and community sustainability. It challenges stereotypes portraying indigenous communities as underdeveloped or backward, emphasizing their agency and rejecting their characterization as mere beneficiaries of development. Consequently, indigenous peoples face dwindling access to resources, shrinking livelihood options, and the erosion of traditional knowledge, all while their rights remain largely unrecognized. The findings contribute significantly to the discourse on indigenous rights, particularly highlighting the indispensable role of women in environmental preservation. The research advocates for a more inclusive and equitable approach to natural resource management in Indonesia, emphasizing the need for policies that respect and uphold indigenous rights.