Mongabay · Climate & nature

Indonesia Restricts Forest Data Access, Threatening Legal Action

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry is implementing new restrictions on accessing geospatial data, warning of legal prosecution, including prison time, for unauthorized downloads. This move raises concerns among researchers about its impact on environmental science.

The ministry's mapping platform now warns that downloading data without permission is punishable under the 2008 ITE Law, with penalties up to nine years in prison. An application process is also being introduced.

Ministry officials state restrictions prevent data manipulation and illegal trading. They claim only shapefile format data is restricted, while PDF downloads remain accessible.

Researchers and scholars argue geospatial data should be freely accessible. They worry new restrictions will hinder monitoring of deforestation and illegal land clearing.

Legal experts contend the ministry is overreaching, citing laws guaranteeing the right to obtain information. They argue restricting access undermines democracy.

The ministry will provide shapefile data to universities and government researchers but not NGOs. NGOs must digitize data themselves or request ministry analysis.

Critics note shapefiles are crucial for accurate data overlaying. Manual digitization from formats like PDF is time-consuming and inaccurate.

Scholars question the ITE Law's application, suggesting it doesn't criminalize downloading without intent to deceive. They stress accessible data is vital for combating environmental crime.

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