Food from the sea: Contesting the blue economy through indigenous stories, livelihoods, and kinship in Lembata Island, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Abstract

Food from the Sea: Contesting the Blue Economy through Indigenous Stories, Livelihoods and Kinship in Lembata critically examines the intersections between Indonesia’s Blue Economy programme and Indigenous marine governance, focusing on the Lamaholot communities in Lembata, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Drawing on qualitative research inspired by ethnographic methodologies (participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussion), the study explores how traditional ecological knowledge, cultural practices and livelihoods are maintained or disrupted by top-down marine policies. This research shows a disjuncture between the Blue Economy agenda and Indigenous practices rooted in communal stewardship and spiritual ties to land and sea. While Blue Economy initiatives promote sustainability and economic growth, the implementation often marginalises Indigenous and small-scale fishers, threatening food sovereignty and traditional governance. By investigating local responses, including resistance and negotiation, this thesis highlights the concept of blue justice and advocates for inclusive, community-led marine governance. The findings challenge dominant development narratives and contribute to debates on environmental justice, resource access, and Indigenous rights in the context of marine conservation and economic policy.