Abstract
The conventional Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial mapping techniques fail to understand a spatially complex forest area. This is because forest landscapes cannot be easily mapped into a two-dimensional map, which is usually used in spatial planning. In addition, planning maps are the fundamental factors of land grabbing issues. To solve this problem, counter-mapping arises at the local level as a tool to overcome the problem of land grabbing in forest areas in Indonesia. Counter mapping is defined here as part of a broader term under participatory mapping or citizen mapping. However, counter-mapping also faces critiques in terms of different epistemological and socio-economic-political conditions at the local level. This article elaborates the use of GIS and spatial mapping methods within a 'critical' social science approach based on literature review and field experiences. This article also aims to analyze counter-mapping as a ‘tool’ to solve the forest land-use problem, which can contribute to the choice of policy instruments in forest management and conservation in Indonesia.
Highlights
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are computer-based systems used to collect, store, analyze, display, and retrieve data for various purposes related to mapping and planning (Burrough et al, 2015)
In my examination of trends in Indonesia, I ask how do we incorporate complex social relations like tenure dynamics within community forestry areas? How do we prevent the map from being a 'static' or 'reified' output (Peluso, 1995)? A more specific challenge involves the mapping of customary contexts in forest areas
Land management in Indonesia is closely related to spatial planning by the state
Summary
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are computer-based systems used to collect, store, analyze, display, and retrieve data for various purposes related to mapping and planning (Burrough et al, 2015). Civil society in West Kalimantan formed the 'Civil Society Coalition for a Just and Sustainable Spatial Plan' and together with the communities conducted counter-mapping to challenge particular land categorizations in the new spatial plan (Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah / RTRW) in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. This brief article consists of a target review to better understand and place the use of GIS and spatial mapping methods within a 'critical' social science lens. I elaborate how GIS is used to enclose areas within Indonesia spatial planning system, and how counter-mapping strategies have sought to push back on this issue
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