Impact of Extended Village Leadership on Community Welfare in Indonesia

Abstract

General Background: In Indonesia, villages serve as the foundational administrative units vital for local management and development, particularly under Law No. 6 of 2014. Specific Background: The headman's term, typically six years, can be extended, influencing community welfare programs. Tanggulangin Village in Sidoarjo exemplifies this practice, focusing on resource management, infrastructure improvement, and social services. Knowledge Gap: Limited research exists on the impacts of term extensions for village heads on community development and governance dynamics. Aims: This study aims to explore both positive and negative outcomes of extending the headman's term and its implications for village governance and community welfare. Results: Interviews reveal that extended terms positively affect program continuity and project completion, fostering better leadership stability, effective resource allocation, and enhanced public services. Conversely, potential drawbacks include diminished leadership effectiveness over time and challenges in adapting to evolving technological landscapes. Novelty: This research contributes to the discourse on local governance by highlighting the dual impacts of leadership term extensions, offering a nuanced understanding of village administration in Indonesia. Implications: Findings suggest that while extended leadership can optimize community welfare initiatives, attention must be paid to the risks of stagnation and resistance to innovation. Sustainable development in villages may necessitate a balance between continuity and the infusion of new ideas through periodic leadership changes. Highlights: Extended term improves community project continuity and effectiveness. Stability enhances resource management and public service delivery. Risks include reduced adaptability and potential leadership stagnation. Keywords: village governance, term extension, community welfare, leadership stability, Indonesia