Abstract
Decentralisation aims to improve social welfare. However, the authority held by regional governments increases the opportunities for corruption in the forestry sector. The aim of this research is to elaborate on problematic decentralisation and corruption in the forestry sector; additionally, the study considers the change in forest management policy before, during, and after decentralisation in a discussion of the measures taken to eradicate regional corruption in the forestry sector. The findings indicate that holders of large amounts of capital are influential in politics, leading to legislation that favor’s individual interests over the welfare of low-income populations. The integrity and commitment of regional heads determine whether a region is corruption-free. The following could help reduce corruption that damages the environment within regional areas: (1) enforcing the commitment of regional heads to eradicating corruption; (b) strengthening the structure of law enforcement; and (c) strengthening community groups. It is recommended that the government enforce the integrity of regional heads and maintain an internal commitment in all areas to eradicating corruptors.
Highlights
The connection between decentralisation and corruption has recently been discussed among researchers, policy makers, and the public
Community and ecologically based legal reform (HUMA) indicates that Law Number 41 of 1999 concerning forestry contains some weaknesses: (a) ambiguity, vagueness regarding rights and obligations, and a lack of security in forest management; (b) reduced public access to the forest; (c) an imbalanced allocation of funds for the forests managed by the public, private corporations and the government; and (d) overlaps in area status (Arizona, 2008)
The concurrent government within the regional authority is further divided into 2 categories which is reflected in Article 11 Paragraph (1), namely: compulsory government5 and elective government
Summary
The connection between decentralisation and corruption has recently been discussed among researchers, policy makers, and the public. 3. In a budget proposal for the procurement of an integrated radio communication system by the Ministry of Forestry from 2007 – 2008, some amount of money was given to the members of commission IV of the House of Representatives and to officials of the Forest Department. 5. The Regent of Siak issued business permits to several companies for the utilisation of wood products from a forest plantation from 2001 – 2003 in the Regency of Siak. A business permit was issued to 9 companies in the Province of Riau for the utilisation of wood products from a forest plantation. Regional governments argue that the wood produced by the forests can provide more regional revenue, a statement that supports decentralisation This assumption by the state leads to the issuance of permits for logging, which certainly leads to more extensive deforestation (Siswanto and Wardojo, 2006).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
