Nabire, Central Papua – The Central Papua Provincial Government is strengthening its legal assistance framework to expand access to legal aid services for low-income residents and vulnerable groups through a Focus Group Discussion (FGD).
Expert Staff II to the Governor of Central Papua for Community Affairs, Human Resources, and Special Autonomy Development, Ukkas, said the FGD serves as an important platform to build a common understanding and enhance coordination among stakeholders in providing legal services and assistance to those in need.
“Every citizen has equal standing before the law. However, in practice, there are still members of the community who face difficulties in accessing legal information, services, and assistance,” Ukkas said in Nabire on Friday.
He explained that economic hardship, limited access to legal services, insufficient legal awareness, and the province’s challenging geographical conditions remain significant obstacles for many people seeking justice.
According to Ukkas, vulnerable groups—including women, children, persons with disabilities, Indigenous Papuans, victims of violence, and residents living in remote areas—require legal services that are accessible and responsive to their needs.
He emphasized that legal aid should not merely exist as an administrative program but must reach those who need it through fair, prompt, and non-discriminatory services.
“Legal services should not be concentrated only in provincial or regency capitals but must also reach districts and villages,” he said.
Ukkas stressed the importance of strengthening collaboration between the provincial government and legal aid organizations, professional associations, universities, religious institutions, customary institutions, and community organizations to expand legal assistance networks across Central Papua.
He also highlighted the need for accurate data on low-income residents and vulnerable groups requiring legal aid to ensure that government programs and services are delivered effectively and target the right beneficiaries.
Ukkas expressed hope that the FGD would produce practical recommendations, including the provision of legal information in language that is easy to understand, simplified complaint mechanisms, expanded legal consultation services, and stronger legal assistance networks extending to remote communities.
“The outcomes of this FGD must not end as meeting notes. They should result in concrete recommendations, a clear division of responsibilities, and follow-up actions that each stakeholder can implement,” he said.
He added that preventive measures are equally important in expanding access to justice through public education on citizens’ rights and responsibilities, proper dispute resolution, and stronger protection for women and children.
Ukkas further emphasized that government officials must deliver public services professionally and without creating unnecessary obstacles for citizens. Every complaint, he said, should be received, documented, and followed up in accordance with applicable authority and legal provisions.
The Central Papua Provincial Government remains committed to improving the quality of public services, protecting human rights, ensuring equality before the law, and maintaining social harmony through close cooperation with all stakeholders.
