MARKET DOMINANCE AND MARGINALIZATION OF FARMERS: A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY ON THE CRISIS OF FARMER WELFARE AND FOOD SECURITY IN WEST ACEH

MARKET DOMINANCE AND MARGINALIZATION OF FARMERS

Abstract

This study examines the imbalance in power relations between farmers and market participants in the distribution chain of agricultural commodities in West Aceh through the perspective of Antonio Gramsci's hegemonic theory. The background of this study departs from the condition of Indonesia's agricultural sector which, although it has a vital role in food security, faces pressure due to land conversion, environmental degradation, price fluctuations, and weak bargaining position of farmers. In West Aceh, the dominance of middlemen, wholesalers, corporations, and modern distribution networks creates a monopsony market structure that is detrimental to farmers, both through price controls and limited market access. The research method uses a qualitative approach based on literature studies, with content analysis of books, journals, official reports, and online publications. The results of the study show that market dominance of farmers is not only economic, but also ideological and cultural. The narrative of modernization and industrialization built through policies and the media has shaped farmers' consciousness to leave the agricultural sector, thereby reinforcing their marginalization. This condition has implications for a decrease in regional food production capacity and an increase in the vulnerability of national food security. The research recommends strengthening price policy interventions, agricultural infrastructure and technology development, trade system reform through cooperatives, protection of productive land, and the formation of an alternative narrative that places agriculture as a modern and strategic sector.   Keywords: market dominance, marginalization of farmers, food security, social inequality