THE PARADOX OF POVERTY IN THE MIDST OF MARINE POTENTIAL: A MULTI-PARADIGMATIC SOCIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS IN THE COASTAL FISHING COMMUNITY OF BIAK NUMFOR REGENCY

Abstract

This study discusses the paradox of poverty of coastal fishing communities in the midst of the great potential of marine resources in Biak Numfor Regency, Papua. The research aims to analyze maritime poverty through a multi-paradigmatic sociological approach that includes functional structural perspectives, conflict theory, and symbolic interactions. The research uses a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The results of the study show that the fishing community is still in a vulnerable economic condition due to limited capital, fishing technology, market access, and dependence on middlemen. The income of the fishing community is greatly influenced by weather conditions and fishing seasons so that it is volatile. From a functional structural perspective, the poverty of coastal communities shows the dysfunction of the social system in maritime development. From the perspective of conflict theory, poverty is influenced by the inequality of power relations between fishermen and capital owners through the patron-client system. Meanwhile, the perspective of symbolic interaction shows that fishers often experience social stigma as a poor and disadvantaged group, despite still having strong maritime social and cultural solidarity. This study concludes that the poverty of maritime communities is a multidimensional problem influenced by economic, social, cultural, and political factors so that it requires equitable and participatory coastal development.