Geographical indications, heritage and decentralization policies: the case of Indonesia

Over the years, enthusiasts of geographical indication (GI) protection have often asserted its benefits for developing countries. It has been said that GIs can assist with the promotion of rural and regional development; support the emerging creative industries; help to protect traditional cultural expressions; ensure that the exploitation of traditional knowledge would recognize sacred beliefs and practices of traditional peoples; safeguard cultural heritage; promote environmentally sustainable development; and indirectly contribute to an increase in tourism. Such laudable goals have also been mentioned in the Preamble of the Official Government Explanation introducing the relevant Government Regulation in Indonesia in 2007. The Preamble speaks about using GIs for conserving the environment, empowering natural and human resources in the regions, and preventing migration to the cities by creating opportunities for work in these regions.