Mapping institutional inequalities in rice farmer groups: Implications for sustainable food security in South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract

Sustainable food security in Indonesia depends on agricultural production and institutional capacity governing resources and markets. Farmer groups and associations (Gapoktan) are expected to function as independent economic organizations but remain constrained. This study mapped the institutional capacity of rice-farmer institutions in Maros Regency, South Sulawesi, using the Resources-Organization-Norms (RON) framework to identify barriers to food self-sufficiency. A case study was conducted across three subdistricts using interviews, focus groups, and observations, covering 47 farmer groups and 5 Gapoktan. Farmers were predominantly male (75.2%), aged 41–55 (58.6%), high-school educated (47.9%), cultivating <1 Ha (63.4%), with >10 years’ experience (52.7%) and land ownership (69.1%); 61.3% reported Gapoktan membership. Findings revealed uneven resource distribution: while human resources were robust, financial resources were constrained by inadequate collateral and legal status. Although formal organizational structures existed, governance was ineffective. Social norms were most influential, while organizational and legal norms were weak, with inactive statutes limiting financial access. This weakens networks and hinders food security sustainability. Strengthening sustainable food security requires prioritizing legalization, governance reform, financing access, and enhanced networks.