Peran Kepemimpinan Informal dalam Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Kampung di Papua: Studi Literatur
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64281/6y4ymv30Abstract
This study aims to explore the strategic role of informal leadership in the empowerment process of village communities in Papua. Using a qualitative approach through a literature review, this study analyzes academic literature related to the role of tribal chiefs, traditional figures, and religious leaders in mediating development that aligns with local values. Data sources were obtained from journal articles, institutional reports, and relevant academic works from the past decade. The results show that informal leaders play a crucial role as agents of social mediation, guardians of cultural legitimacy, and facilitators of inclusive development. Their leadership is based on moral authority, local wisdom, and deeply rooted social networks, making them more trusted than formal institutions. They are able to translate development policies into customary frameworks, ensure social acceptance, and increase citizen participation. The effectiveness of informal leaders is increasingly evident in the context of tensions between modernization and the preservation of traditional values. These leaders also demonstrate adaptive capabilities, including in managing digital media and contemporary issues such as environmental crises or pandemics. This study emphasizes that ignoring their role in policymaking can hinder the success of development programs in Papua. Therefore, integrating informal leadership into participatory governance is a strategic imperative for achieving sustainable and contextual empowerment.
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References
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