Local Governance and Poverty Reduction in Decentralising Indonesia: Case in Riau Province

Abstract

Poverty is still a problem that continues to occur so that it is included in the agenda of the sustainable development goals (SDGs). This poverty issue has received serious attention from developing countries including Indonesia. The paradigm shift from centralization to decentralization that occurred in Indonesia gives hope for the community to be able to live in prosperity. However, the authority that has been owned by the local government has not been able to be utilized optimally in solving the problem of poverty in Riau Province. Based on the empiric phenomenon, this article seeks to answer the question how is the strategy carried out by the local governance in reducing poverty in Riau Province? This study uses qualitative research methods. The data collected in this study comes from interviews, books, research journals, reports, and articles in mass media and online media. Data analysis is done by interactive methods and analyzed using theories or approaches that are relevant to research. The results of this study indicate that the role of local governance in overcoming poverty in Riau Province by; (1) Funding assistance policies for the poor; (2) Infrastructure development to the countryside; (3) empowering indigenous people and communities; (4) Providing access to economic resources for the poor. The conclusion in this study is that the strategies carried out by the local governments have not been able to reduce poverty in Riau Province, because collaboration with private actors has not been optimized.