Actor-Network Theory: Policy Formulation for Handling Beggars and Homeless People (PGOT) to Support Tourism in Surakarta

Abstract: Surakarta, well-known as Solo, is the main tourist destination in Central Java. Solo has declared itself as a MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Convention, and Exhibition) city while still focusing on leisure tourism which is currently slowing down. One of the problems which can cause a negative image of the city is the number of beggars and homeless people (PGOT). To create an ideal PGOT management policy which can accommodate all aspirations and interests, and avoid government domination and political content, a policy network needs to be built. Actor-Network Theory was developed by Michel Callon, Bruno Latour and John Law, arguing that society is not just about individuals and norms governing their lives but they move in a network, both humans as subjects and inanimate things as objects. The method used is a qualitative descriptive approach which emphasizes the disclosure of the meaning and process of the various factors studied, and also aims to understand the phenomena holistically experienced by research subjects. The network of actors in the formulation of policies for handling PGOT in Surakarta should be formulated by accommodating the interests of the parties involved. This policy is not only oriented towards benefits for the public interest but also accommodates the target group by upholding their dignity as human beings. In its implementation, enforcement of sanctions is required. Massive socialization and education to the public also need to be conducted.

Key words: tourism; actor-network theory; policy; PGOT

JEL code: Z380