ABSTRACT
Since the mid-1960s, the Indonesian military has played an active role in the exploitation of the nation’s forest resources. This role is best understood within the historical context of the military’s pervasive and institutionalized involvement in the social, political, and economic affairs of the nation. The military’s abuse of power and its direct involvement in the exploitation of the nation’s forests were partly the result of the doctrine of dwi-fungsi (dual function) implemented under the regime of President Suharto (1966–98). Forest resources played an important role in the Suharto regime’s plans for economic development and the extension of its political control across the nation. The military’s involvement included: (1) direct investment in forest industries; (2) facilitation of contracts and concessions through influence peddling and the forceful repression of communities and other interests opposed to logging; and (3) participation in many aspects of the illegal timber economy. The post-Suharto era has been one marked by political upheaval, economic crisis, and efforts to decentralize political power. Since Suharto’s fall and during the subsequent period of reformasi, greater attention has been paid to forest issues and the military’s role in logging. However, the military’s longstanding involvement in illegal logging and unsustainable forest practices will likely continue if the broader movements to reform civil society are stymied. Conservationists should link their efforts with a range of development and advocacy organizations to support the broader reform movement. If the country’s unique and globally significant forest patrimony is to be conserved, the military’s substantial role in deforestation must be acknowledged and promptly addressed. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-HAWORTH. E-mail address: <getinfo@haworthpressinc.com> Website: <https://www.HaworthPress.com> © 2003 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.]
