Balancing Collaboration and Contestation: A Preliminary Analysis of Maritime Sector NGOs in Indonesia

Abstract

The maritime sector has emerged as an important policyfield in Indonesia in the past decade. The rising interest stems from the vision of a “global maritime fulcrum.” However, discussions have mostly centered on the state as the central actor in governing the maritime sector. Often overlooked is the role of civil society actors. Drawing from desk research and semi-structured interviews, this article introduces the roles and strategies of maritime sector NGOs in maritime governance in Indonesia. Four preliminary findings are presented. First, maritime sector NGOs have generally leaned towards advocacy. Second, newer maritime sector NGOs focused more on research-oriented or specialist/ technical roles. Third, in their relations with the state, maritime sector NGOs have crafted a moderate approach characterized by careful engagement with policymakers. Fourth, in navigating relations with other elements of civil society and the government, maritime sector NGOs have preferred the strategy of creating fluid coalitions to advance their cause. These preliminary findings identify emerging areas of contestation and collaboration between the state and civil society in the Indonesian maritime sector.