Politics and Social Welfare: Dynamics of Social Assistance Programs on Electability in Indonesia

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the relationship between political policy and social welfare, with a focus on the dynamics of the Social Assistance Program (Bansos) and its impact on electability in Indonesia. In a dynamic political context, social assistance programs have a significant role in shaping public perceptions of government performance. This research uses a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. This research found that the main focus of social assistance is on the poor as the group most in need. Unfortunately, the practice of politicizing social assistance often occurs before general elections, obscuring its true purpose. Research notes cases of politicization, such as the use of the Family Hope Program as a campaign tool, detrimental to the essence of the welfare program. Regulatory reform, application of the concept of graduation, and policy focus on economic empowerment are crucial steps to maintain the effectiveness of social assistance, avoid the risk of politicization, and address the root causes of poverty in a sustainable manner. The decision of the Government and DPR to shorten the campaign period further increases the risk of politicization, especially with the existence of a socialization period which can be used to maneuver without sanctions. Criticism of the increase in the allocation of social assistance funds indicates the potential for pork barrel politics, where the government may use it selectively for the benefit of increasing electability. Increased supervision, transparency, political literacy, and a strong media role are key in overcoming the complex challenges of politicization of social assistance and pork barrel politics ahead of the elections.