Inclusive Social Development of the Coastal Area of ​​Pabean Udik Village, Indramayu, through the Poverty Alleviation Social Assistance Program

Abstract

This study explores how inclusive social development can be achieved in coastal communities through the implementation of social assistance programs for poverty alleviation. Using a constructivist paradigm and a qualitative descriptive approach, this research focuses on the case of Pabean Udik Village, a coastal area in Indramayu Regency, West Java, where most residents rely on small-scale fisheries and informal labor. The study examines how the village head exercises communicative leadership in organizing participatory village deliberations (musyawarah desa) for determining recipients of Direct Cash Transfer from Village Funds (BLT-DD). Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis, and then analyzed thematically. Findings indicate that inclusive decision-making in Pabean Udik Village is shaped by three interrelated elements: communicative leadership, deliberative forums, and accountable governance. The village head’s communicative capacity especially openness in explaining policy rationale, facilitating two-way dialogue, and mediating social tensions builds community trust and social legitimacy. Transparent deliberation involving neighborhood leaders (RT), village consultative bodies (BPD), and community representatives strengthens social accountability and minimizes conflict or jealousy among residents. This study concludes that the success of poverty alleviation programs in coastal villages depends not only on financial distribution but also on inclusive governance and effective communication practices. Strengthening communicative leadership and participatory mechanisms is essential for achieving sustainable socio-economic transformation in coastal areas of Indonesia.