Evaluation of the Implementation of Regency Conservation Policies on Forest Cover and the Livelihoods of Indigenous Communities in Tambrauw Regency, Southwest West Papua

Abstract

This study is motivated by the importance of empirically evaluating the effectiveness of community-based conservation in Tambrauw Regency in maintaining forest cover while also improving the livelihoods of indigenous communities. The aim of the research is to analyze the implementation of community-based conservation policies and their impact on changes in forest cover and the socio-economic conditions of indigenous communities. The study uses a mixed methods approach with an integrative design, combining spatial quantitative analysis based on multitemporal satellite imagery to measure changes in forest cover, along with qualitative and descriptive analysis of socio-economic data through interviews and field observations. The results show that forest cover is relatively stable with only minor changes, but this condition cannot be directly linked to the success of the conservation policies, rather it is more influenced by customary factors and geographical conditions. On the other hand, the policy hasn't had a significant impact on improving the livelihoods of indigenous communities, indicated by minimal economic benefits, low levels of socialization, and weak implementation and community involvement mechanisms. In short, community-based conservation in Tambrauw hasn't created a synergy between ecological and socio-economic goals, so it's necessary to strengthen policy implementation, actively involve indigenous communities, and develop sustainable economic benefit schemes as policy implications