Indigenous Rights Clash with Indonesia's Palm Oil Expansion

Indonesia's Supreme Court denied an appeal by the Awyu Indigenous people to cancel a palm oil concession. This decision impacts governance efforts amidst deforestation and human rights issues. The case reflects broader tensions between economic goals and Indigenous rights in the world's top palm oil exporting nation.

Indonesia's Supreme Court has rejected an appeal by an Indigenous group aiming to halt a large-scale palm oil concession on territory they regard as ancestral land. This verdict, as revealed by legal documents on Friday, maintains the contested permit and underscores challenges in balancing economic interests with Indigenous and environmental concerns.

The dispute originated from the Woro clan of the Awyu people against PT Indo Asiana Lestari's concession over 36,000 hectares. Hendrikus "Franky" Woro, a leading advocate for the Awyu, expressed his dismay, citing a lack of governmental support throughout their legal struggle to protect ancestral lands.

Indonesia, the largest palm oil exporter globally, faces scrutiny over its commitment to improving governance amid allegations of deforestation and human rights abuses. The court's ruling may influence similar pending cases, affecting approximately 115,000 hectares of contested land.

(With inputs from agencies.)