Legal Settlement of Contractual Disputes Arising from Force Majeure During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study examines the resolution of contractual disputes arising from force majeure conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in relation to event agreements such as wedding services. The global spread of COVID-19, which was officially declared a national disaster in Indonesia through Presidential Decree No. 12 of 2020, significantly affected the implementation of contractual obligations due to government-imposed restrictions such as Large-Scale Social Restrictions (PSBB). This research employs a normative juridical approach, utilizing legal doctrines, statutory regulations, and conceptual analysis supported by literature review. The findings indicate that many agreements between consumers and service providers, especially wedding organizers, were disrupted due to circumstances beyond control, leading to delays or cancellations of events. As a result, conflicts emerged where consumers perceived service providers to be in default, while in reality, the inability to perform was due to force majeure. The study highlights the importance of legal understanding in determining liability and emphasizes the need for fair dispute resolution mechanisms that consider both parties’ positions under extraordinary conditions.