Traditional Conflict Resolution of Paddy Field Farmers

Abstract

Conflict resolution theorists have recognised the necessity of addressing conflict resolution within the domestic sphere of nations on a global scale in its present state of advancement. One example is Indonesia, a country characterised by a propensity for conflicts in rural regions that are primarily driven by agricultural and plantation activities. The primary objective of conducting research on conflict resolution among wetland farmers is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of conflict interactions among these individuals, as well as to examine the strategies and approaches employed by wetland farmers in effectively resolving conflicts that arise within wetland areas. The chosen research methodology employs a qualitative approach, specifically the phenomenological variant, and incorporates an interactive model for data analysis. The findings indicated that a conflict resolution initiative was initiated by the sharecroppers in the rice field planting limit, without the participation of traditional leaders, the head of the neighbourhood association, or the local village head. The paddy field farmers employ traditional methods to address conflicts within their community. The results of this study indicate that conflict resolution among rural rice field farmers in the context of paddy rice planting is predominantly characterised by traditional patterns rather than modern ones. This entails that farmers rely on established decision-making practises to address conflicts related to rice planting limits in their fields. These conflicts typically involve individual owners of rice fields and intermediaries engaged in the buying and selling of such fields. This study proposes the enhancement of conflict resolution strategies among wetland farmers through the implementation of district government policies and village regulations that prioritise the preservation of the cultural practises associated with conflict resolution within the wetland farming community. The implications for the sustainability of rice production by wetland farmers are influenced by the reinforcement of district government policies and village regulations.