Communication Model in Managing Geothermal Power Plant Conflicts on Serang Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

Aims: The construction of Geothermal Power Plants in several regions in Indonesia is currently always characterized by conflict and opposition from local communities, including in Serang Regency. One of the main issues is the company’s inappropriate communication strategy, resulting in a lack of community acceptance and leading to conflicts. The research focuses on the different stages of conflict, behavior and communication of conflicting parties within managing conflict strategies. Researchers utilize Galtung's conflict model and the convergence-divergence communication theory. Methodology: The research method used is qualitative research through the examination of case studies. This was done because the problems in this research remained unclear, holistic, complex, dynamic and full of meaning. Meanwhile, the data collection techniques used in this research were documentation obtained 73 news published by 35 online media covering statistics on yearly citizen actions and newspaper publications, news topics or discussions, and online news coverage on the construction of the Geothermal Power Plant in Serang regency, Indonesia. Also, with direct field observations and in-depth interviews with several informants at the study location. Results: Based on research findings, the Geothermal Power Plant conflict went through 4 stages, including the initial conflict phase; conflict phase; the trust-building phase leading to conflict resolution; and the conflict resolution phase. Meanwhile, based on Galtung's theory, conflict occurs when there is a discrepancy between the socialization provided by the company and the community’s direct experiences, leading to rejection through various actions. The divergent communication approach utilized by the company towards the affected communities resulted in different interpretations, ultimately causing the root of the conflict. Conclusion: The conflict stages in the Geothermal Power Plant development project in Serang regency are divided into several phases that closely related with communication occurred between company, government and the local communities. Lack of communication formed negative opinions about the project developers, leading them to oppose the construction of the Geothermal project. The convergent communication model combined with other communication models such as open, participatory and supportive communication is considered to be highly effective in addressing conflicts.