PENERAPAN HUKUM PIDANA DI LINGKUNGAN MASYARAKAT

Abstrak

 This study examines the role of criminal law in maintaining public order, security, and
environmental sustainability within the Indonesian legal system. Indonesia, as a state governed by
law, has established a comprehensive legal framework to regulate social life and protect public
interests, including environmental protection as mandated by the 1945 Constitution and further
elaborated in Law Number 32 of 2009 on Environmental Protection and Management. This law
emphasizes key principles such as pollution control, environmental responsibility, prevention and
rehabilitation, and public participation. However, empirical conditions show that various criminal
acts, including environmental crimes and conventional offenses, continue to occur at a relatively
high rate, indicating challenges in the effectiveness of criminal law enforcement. Inconsistent
application of sanctions and limited deterrent effects remain significant obstacles. Therefore,
criminal law functions not only as a repressive instrument but also as a preventive mechanism and a
means of social control aimed at fostering legal awareness, justice, and a sense of security within
society. Strengthening law enforcement consistency, enhancing public legal awareness, and
promoting cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the community are essential to
achieving a safe, orderly, and sustainable social environment..