Public Participation in Realizing Sustainable Geopark Development: Dieng Geopark Case

This research focuses on the role and participation of the public in realizing sustainable Geopark development, which is not only for the Geopark but also for the surrounding communities, especially in Dieng Geopark, Central Java. Qualitative research method was used in this research, with the selection of case study as the data collection method. Semi-structured and in-depth interviews were conducted with key respondents representing the government, Geopark managers, and the community. Quick & Bryson’s (2016) concept of public participation was used to see how high the involvement of the community is in the sustainable development of this Geopark by focusing on 5 (five) main principles of public participation, namely inclusiveness, sustainability, contextuality, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and strengthening public capacity. The findings of this study illustrate that the principle of public participation in Dieng Geopark in realizing the sustainable development of Dieng Geopark is quite good as seen from the fulfillment of all aspects of public participation according to Quick & Bryson. Hopefully, the findings of this research can foster public awareness and involvement in realizing the sustainable development of Dieng Geopark.