GOVERNMENT RESPONSIBILITY IN LEGAL PROTECTION EFFORTS FOR TRADITIONAL FISHERMEN IN ARCHIPELAGIC AREAS

Authors

  • Rovsky Asyer Wattimena
  • Marthinus Johanes Saptenno
  • Jantje Tjiptabudy
  • Renny Heronia Nendissa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v23.7318

Keywords:

Archipelagic Region, Traditional Fishers, Legal Protection, Government Responsibility

Abstract

Background: Traditional fishermen in archipelagic states face structural vulnerabilities that intersect directly with state human rights obligations. In archipelagic setups, the ocean is not merely a resource but a living space and cultural identity. Problem: This study examines the multi-layered challenges confronting traditional fishermen in Indonesia's remote islands, characterized by a "triple-problem": disharmonization of center-local maritime authorities, lack of small-island coastal infrastructure, and geographical isolation that impedes legal enforcement against illegal fishing. Method: Utilizing a normative-doctrinal legal research methodology, this paper employs both a statute and a conceptual approach to evaluate the operationalization of the "duty to act" under the welfare state paradigm. Results/ Findings: The analysis reveals that the core philosophical responsibility of the state is severely fragmented by sectoral egoism arising from decentralized legal regimes (e.g., the Regional Government Law), which creates spatial injustice. By comparing these dynamics with Norway’s integrated coastal management zone systems, this paper argues that true state responsibility must transition from an administrative checklist to a substantive-emancipatory legal framework. Conclusion: The study recommends a comprehensive policy reconstruction, including localized legal discretion for archipelagic regional governments and tailored green-infrastructure mandates for small islands.

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Published

2026-08-04

How to Cite

Wattimena, R. A., Saptenno, M. J., Tjiptabudy, J., & Nendissa, R. H. (2026). GOVERNMENT RESPONSIBILITY IN LEGAL PROTECTION EFFORTS FOR TRADITIONAL FISHERMEN IN ARCHIPELAGIC AREAS. Veredas Do Direito, 23(13), e237318. https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v23.7318