Strengthening Customary Legal Autonomy in Aceh

A Theoretical Framework from Eugen Ehrlich and Jasser Auda

Authors

  • Andi Muhammad Galib Pengadilan Agama Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia
  • Abbas Sofwan Matlail Fajar Institut Agama Islam Tribakti, Kediri, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59001/pjls.v4i1.489

Keywords:

Aceh, customary Law, living law, Maqasid al-Shariah, dispute resolution

Abstract

This study explores the urgency of strengthening the autonomy of legal dispute resolution through customary institutions in Aceh by applying two theoretical lenses: Eugen Ehrlich’s Living Law and Jasser Auda’s Maqasid al-Shariah. Customary institutions in Aceh play a central role in maintaining justice and social cohesion, yet they are often marginalized by formal state law. Through a normative-qualitative approach and literature-based analysis, this research finds that these institutions embody the core values of Living Law and are normatively aligned with the maqasid principles of life, intellect, dignity, and property. Auda’s systemic and contextual understanding of Islamic law provides a framework for recognizing the dynamic legal function of Acehnese adat within a pluralistic society. The synergy between these two paradigms offers a new methodological foundation for legal reform that is both locally grounded and ethically driven. This study concludes that empowering customary institutions is not a form of legal conservatism but an affirmation of legal pluralism and a step toward achieving substantive justice within Indonesia’s national legal system.

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Published

2025-06-25

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