Normative Approach in Forestry Law Enforcement in Papua Province: Challenges and Opportunities for Indigenous Peoples’ Participation

Abstract

This study uses a normative-juridical approach to examine the enforcement of forestry crime laws in Papua Province. The research focuses on implementing Article 76 of Papua Perdasus No. 21 of 2008, which outlines legal enforcement mechanisms in the forestry sector. The regional government is responsible for preparing forestry police officers in Papua and involving customary law communities in forest protection efforts. These communities can act as Swakarsa forest police, participating in forest security within their customary areas. Additionally, the study highlights the role of Ministerial Regulation No. P.56/Menhut-II/2014, which governs the formation of the Forestry Police Partner Community (MMP). The MMP consists of local community groups collaborating with the Forestry Police to safeguard forest areas. Their duties include assisting in forest patrols, securing forest protection infrastructure, disseminating information on forestry, and reporting any threats or security disturbances. The MMP also plays a role in arresting suspects caught in the act and securing evidence for immediate handover to the forestry police or Civil Servant Investigators. This collaborative approach strengthens forest law enforcement by integrating local community participation in safeguarding forests.