RT Journal Article A1 Mallia Hartani A1 Suci Wahyu Fajriani A1 Kurnia Asni Sari A1 Lisya Septiani Putri T1 Inequality and potential: A sociological analysis of the role of local communities in the tourism economy around Lake Lut Tawar JF Priviet Social Sciences Journal YR 2025 VO 5 IS 8 SP 266-276 DO 10.55942/pssj.v5i8.638 AB This study examines the unequal distribution of economic benefits and potential for local community development in the Lut Tawar Lake tourist area, Central Aceh Regency, using Anthony Giddens' structuration theory as a single analytical framework. A qualitative approach was used through literature review, field observations, and semi-structured interviews. The results indicate that the cultural and natural potential of the local community has not been optimally utilized due to the dominance of external capital, policies that are not yet in favor, and limited community capacity. Structure-agency analysis reveals that the imbalance between policies, regulations, and structural support with the initiatives and capabilities of local actors is the main source of inequality. The proposed strategies include strengthening agencies through training, affirmative regulation, and strengthening market networks to create a balance between structure and agency. K1 Inequality, Local Potential, Lake Lut Tawar, structure LK https://journal.privietlab.org/index.php/PSSJ/article/view/638 ER