Transformative Transparency for Local Natural Resource Revenue Management
Thesis event information
Date and time of the thesis defence
Place of the thesis defence
TA105
Topic of the dissertation
Transformative Transparency for Local Natural Resource Revenue Management
Doctoral candidate
Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) Primi Suharmadhi Putri
Faculty and unit
University of Oulu Graduate School, Faculty of Science, Geography Research Unit
Subject of study
Human Geography
Opponent
Professor Roy Maconachie, University of Bath
Custos
Professor Päivi Lujala, University of Oulu
Transparency in natural resource management
Natural resource extraction, such as oil and mining, is often linked to corruption, mismanagement, and unequal benefits for local communities. Transparency initiatives aim to make information about revenues and governance publicly available, but simply disclosing information has not significantly improved governance or empowered affected communities.
This thesis argues that transparency must go beyond information disclosure. It should actively engage citizens, encourage participation in decision-making, and ensure that policymakers respond to their concerns. The Transparency Cube, introduced in this thesis, presents a framework that integrates three key elements: (1) clear and relevant information, (2) citizen action, and (3) accountability mechanisms that ensure government responsiveness.
The research examines two oil-rich districts in Indonesia that have implemented localized transparency initiatives. It also analyzes Indonesia’s Mineral and Mining Laws to understand how the state defines citizens' rights and roles in resource governance. Through interviews, document analysis, and field observations, the study explores factors influencing citizen participation in transparency policies. Findings reveal that involvement depends on legal frameworks, the impact of extraction on daily life, and interactions with decision-makers. Additionally, the study highlights that transparency efforts must consider local contexts, including who the target citizens are and where they live.
This thesis makes four key contributions. First, it develops the concept of transformative transparency in natural resource governance. Second, it introduces the Transparency Cube as an analytical tool for designing and assessing transparency initiatives. Third, it highlights the role of location and local conditions in shaping citizen engagement. Fourth, it exposes the gap between how elites and citizens perceive transparency and accountability.
The thesis challenges the one-size-fits-all approach to transparency in the extractive sector. It argues that effective transparency must be designed with the needs and realities of affected communities, ensuring that they are not just informed but also empowered to shape resource governance. These insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers and advocates seeking to improve transparency in natural resource governance.
This thesis argues that transparency must go beyond information disclosure. It should actively engage citizens, encourage participation in decision-making, and ensure that policymakers respond to their concerns. The Transparency Cube, introduced in this thesis, presents a framework that integrates three key elements: (1) clear and relevant information, (2) citizen action, and (3) accountability mechanisms that ensure government responsiveness.
The research examines two oil-rich districts in Indonesia that have implemented localized transparency initiatives. It also analyzes Indonesia’s Mineral and Mining Laws to understand how the state defines citizens' rights and roles in resource governance. Through interviews, document analysis, and field observations, the study explores factors influencing citizen participation in transparency policies. Findings reveal that involvement depends on legal frameworks, the impact of extraction on daily life, and interactions with decision-makers. Additionally, the study highlights that transparency efforts must consider local contexts, including who the target citizens are and where they live.
This thesis makes four key contributions. First, it develops the concept of transformative transparency in natural resource governance. Second, it introduces the Transparency Cube as an analytical tool for designing and assessing transparency initiatives. Third, it highlights the role of location and local conditions in shaping citizen engagement. Fourth, it exposes the gap between how elites and citizens perceive transparency and accountability.
The thesis challenges the one-size-fits-all approach to transparency in the extractive sector. It argues that effective transparency must be designed with the needs and realities of affected communities, ensuring that they are not just informed but also empowered to shape resource governance. These insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers and advocates seeking to improve transparency in natural resource governance.
Last updated: 20.3.2025