Legal Literacy - The term "Surat Ijo" refers to a unique land ownership phenomenon in Surabaya, Indonesia, where residents occupy state-owned land without formal ownership rights. This situation has triggered prolonged social and legal conflicts, especially since the Reform Era began in 1999. The following section provides in-depth insights into the complexities surrounding Surat Ijo land, including legal conflicts, history, and various challenges in resolving it.

The legal status of Surat Ijo land is marked by unclear ownership, which has led to disputes between residents and the Surabaya City Government. Residents have formed organizations to advocate for their land rights, leading to prolonged conflicts and unresolved resolutions through mediation and legal channels. In a historical context, the Surat Ijo system is a form of transformation from colonial land lease practices that affect various aspects of life, including the social, economic, and cultural dimensions of the local community.

The emergence of a liberation movement among Surat Ijo land residents reflects efforts to address the long-standing injustices they face. This movement gained momentum due to the impetus for reform after the end of the New Order, which paved the way for openness and freedom of expression. A significant factor that has exacerbated the conflict is the difference in interpretation of laws and regulations, especially regarding regional land laws. This difference in views creates a gap between residents and the City Government regarding the status of rights to state land.