Indigenous Peoples as Legal and Psychosocial Agents: An Integrated Conceptual Framework for Postcolonial Southeast Asia

Vivi Sylvia Purborini; Minggus S. Masela

doi:10.32678/iseaes.v2i1.80

Authors

Vivi Sylvia Purborini Universitas Wisnuwardhana Malang, Indonesia Author
Minggus S. Masela Universitas Wisnuwardhana Malang, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32678/iseaes.v2i1.80

Keywords:

Indigenous Peoples of Southeast Asia, identity politics, legal recognition, psychosocial resilience, traditional ecology

Abstract

This article presents an integrated framework for analysing identity politics and traditional ecology among Indigenous communities in postcolonial Southeast Asia, viewing them as both legal subjects and psychosocial agents. Adopting a normative legal approach with sociological insights, it synthesises secondary sources. Identity politics is key to struggles for land, representation, and customary law. While UNDRIP offers hope, implementation fails due to bureaucratic and economic barriers, creating a recognition gap. We propose synergistic legal-psychosocial recognition, where legal acknowledgment coupled with cultural healing yields better outcomes. Traditional ecology underpins collective identity and resilience. Indigenous communities respond to modernisation via adaptive strategies combining legal advocacy, cultural revival, and ecological care. Identity politics bridges law and well-being amidst globalisation and state systems. We conclude that an interdisciplinary legal-psychosocial lens is vital for substantive recognition, casting Indigenous peoples not only as rights-holders but as healers and transformative agents.

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