Work

Displaced by progress: The new capital development and the powers of exclusion in Balikpapan Bay, Indonesia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Relocation of capital cities often promises modernization and economic growth but raises significant socio-ecological concerns. Indonesia's decision to move its capital from Jakarta to ‘Nusantara’ (IKN) in East Kalimantan exemplifies these challenges, particularly for local communities. This study examines the socio-ecological impacts of this development on coastal communities in Balikpapan Bay, a critical yet underexplored context in Indonesia's new capital project. Drawing on ‘powers of exclusion’ and ocean-grabbing theories, it investigates how government regulations, legitimation, market dynamics, and force intensify the exclusion of coastal communities in Balikpapan Bay, and how IKN's development reshapes access and fishers' relations to coastal resources. Employing qualitative methods, it draws on from field research in several villages around Balikpapan Bay. Findings reveal that the new capital development exacerbates long-standing exclusion of coastal communities, particularly for fishing groups. Pressures from the logging, mining, and plantations had already limited fishermen's access and IKN development deepens this exclusion, disrupting fishers' livelihoods, and sparkling social conflicts over shrinking resources. The study highlights the state's role in legitimizing exclusions under development narratives, prioritizing state and corporate interests over local communities. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the socio-environmental ramifications and trade-offs inherent in large-scale infrastructure projects like capital relocation. This research underscores the urgent need for inclusive approaches in coastal governance to reconcile large-scale development with socio-ecological justice, offering critical insights for policymakers and development practitioners worldwide.

Source: Ocean & Coastal Management

DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2025.107801

Authors: Imam Syafi'i, Dini Suryani, Septi Satriani, Dian Aulia, Ahmad Dhiaulhaq, Pandu Yuhsina Adaba

Institutions: National Research and Innovation Agency, World Resources Institute

Language: English

Topic: Coastal and Marine Management

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Life below water, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,350