Towards Deliberative Ideals with Informality: A Practical Study of Rural Planning in Indonesia

Abstract

This article focuses on a specific discussion regarding how rural planning in Indonesia can provide an understanding of deliberative planning practice. It contributes to the literature related to deliberative planning in a non-western rural context. Primary data were collected from interviews with 23 respondents in Pematang Tengah village, Indonesia. Secondary data, consisting of scientific literature, research reports, and internet sources, were used, as well. Observations were conducted to reveal the way development projects are practically proposed in hamlet and village forums. Different stages of the process were identified and it was concluded that two deliberative mechanisms were used, more precisely directed deliberation and disjointed deliberation. Directed deliberation is an open dialogue that is overseen by all stakeholders. Alternatively, disjointed deliberation is conducted in a separate, informal arena and it is initiated by the local elites. The findings show that the disjointed deliberation in the informal arena can disturb the deliberative ideals, but it can also help to make the formal deliberation successful and fulfil the deliberative ideals.

Power dynamics in collaborative rural planning: The case of Pematang Tengah, Indonesia

“…Beyond this, the results are also relevant to the study of village planning and other planning systems related to the power dynamics that play a role. Wider application can be found in other countries of the global south, such as in Southeast Asia and southern countries of the Asian, African and American continents whose planning processes are characterized by informality (Chien, 2019; Ito et al, 2014; Roy, 2005; Taufiq et al, 2021b; Wattnem, 2016).…”

“…Especially rural planning in the global south is thick with informality. In Indonesia, for example, people prefer to discuss development projects informally rather than in a formal setting (Antlöv, 2003; Scott, 2008; Taufiq et al, 2021b). This article therefore asks: Which power mechanism is active in collaborative rural planning?…”