Horizontalism in the implementation of land redistribution program in Cipari Cilacap Indonesia

Abstract

This study explains the dynamics of non-state actors’ involvement in implementing a land redistribution program in Cipari, Cilacap, Indonesia. The urgency of this study is the massive involvement of non-state actors in the implementation of land redistribution programs while lacking analysis found for the dimension of horizontalism in the implementation of public policies, especially related to the land redistribution program as a part of land reform policy programs in Indonesia. This study focuses on the involvement of non-state actors, the role of Street-Level Bureaucrats (SLBs), and the relationship between SLBs and Local Farmers Organizations (LFO). This study implemented a qualitative approach with a case study strategy. The key informants consisted of village heads, village officials, LFO administrators, and administrators of LFO advocate organizations. We performed observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation reviews for data collection and implemented thematic data analysis. Three main findings include the non-state actors’ involvements since the colonial era (pre-independence), the old order, the new order, to post-reformation, the role of SLBs as state actors dominating the implementation of the land redistribution program, and the negotiation relationship between SLBs and LFO showing the SLBs as the winner.