Jurnal Civics: Media Kajian Kewarganegaraan
Journal title Jurnal Civics: Media Kajian Kewarganegaraan Initials Jurnal Civics Abbreviations j.civ Frequency Biannually (April and October) DOI Prefix 10.21831 ISSN 2541-1918 (Online) | 1829-5789 (Print) Editor-in-chief Prof. Dr. Suyato, M.Pd. Publisher Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta License Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0) Jurnal Civics: Media Kajian Kewarganegaraan (Civics) is a peer-reviewed journal that delves into the discourse and practice of citizenship studies in diverse contexts. This journal focuses on the dimensions and perspectives of cultural diversity, gender equality and social justice, education and learning citizenship (civic education), politics of citizenship, morals, political education and literacy, law of citizen awareness, and ideology of national and global scope. Jurnal Civics: Media Kajian Kewarganegaraan, initially published by UNIVERSITAS NEGERI YOGYAKARTA in 2010, transitioned to an online platform in 2016. 2019 Civics was published with the INDONESIA ASSOCIATION OF PANCASILA AND CIVIC EDUCATION (AP3KnI). This journal has been ACCREDITED by the National Journal Accreditation (ARJUNA) and managed by the Ministry of Research and Technology, Republic of Indonesia, with SINTA 1 from Vol. 20 Number 2 2020 until Vol. 25 Number 1 2028 according to the decree Number 10/C/C3/DT.05.00/2025. Jurnal Civics has at least 120 citations in the SCOPUS database as of March 2026. FOR THE NEXT VOLUME IN 2027, WE WILL JUST PUBLISH 15 ARTICLES PER ISSUE (10-13 RESEARCH ARTICLES, 1-4 SLR, AND 1 BOOK REVIEW.
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Navigating citizenship in an era of global uncertainty
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Reimagining citizenship in electoral times: Lessons from Gen Z’s digital civics prototypes for Indonesia’s 2024 election
This study examines how the Indonesian Generation Z reimagines the role of citizenship in electoral democracy by developing 11 digital civic prototypes for the 2024 election. This study used Schreier's Qualitative Content Analysis method on prototype documents developed by students of the Political Science Study Program at Brawijaya University. The analysis maps three dimensions of Marshallian rights civil, political, and social and the Westheimer-Kahne citizen typology, adding the categories of digital acts and connective action. The results showed a paradigm shift in citizenship from passive voters to participatory citizens through transparent access to candidate information, online channels for public aspirations, and discussion forums for political deliberation. The majority of prototypes emphasize digital-political literacy and the inclusion of young, first-time, and out-of-town voters by utilizing simple language, infographics, and interactive social media campaigns, including elements of gamification and peer mobilization typical of Gen Z. Dimensions of democratic ethics such as anti-abstention education and anti-money politics are quite strong, but social justice orientation and representation of marginalized groups are relatively weak. These findings confirm that the reimagining of citizenship practised by Gen Z in Indonesia focuses on expanding inclusive and ethical electoral access and participation while also revealing the need to strengthen the justice-oriented dimension of citizenship so that civic tech innovation can serve as a more equitable democratic infrastructure. This study provides conceptual and practical implications for educators, policymakers, and election organisers to adopt a collaborative, literacy-based, youth-friendly civic technology approach.
Institutional isomorphism and community politicisation: A theoretical and empirical comparison between Indonesia and Japan
This research aims to explore how global pressures, international standards, and institutional structures affect the development and effectiveness of community politicisation, focusing on the similarities and differences between the two countries. This research uses a qualitative method, analysing secondary data from interviews, digital platforms, and public sources, complemented by textual analysis and social network analysis. These findings highlight the key role of isomorphism in standardising politicisation practices, with Indonesia and Japan both adopting community politicisation models to increase public trust and cooperation. However, significant differences were observed in the execution of these models, especially in the level of community involvement and the historical context of their implementation. While Japan's political system has matured through policies and structures such as "koban" and "chuzaisyo", Indonesia faces challenges related to limited resources and community diversity. The research concludes that the success of community politicisation depends on the effective adaptation of isomorphisms to local needs, emphasising the importance of community participation, human resource development, and periodic evaluations for sustainability and effectiveness. Further research should explore the impact of local adaptation and innovation on community politicisation outcomes.
A comparative study of the Indonesia-Malaysia border regions
This study aims to investigate the socio-cultural, economic, and educational aspects of border communities between Indonesia and Malaysia, with a focus on the Malay and Dayak ethnic groups in Paloh (Sambas Regency) and Jagoi Babang (Bengkayang Regency). Persistent disparities in welfare, educational quality, and national integration in Indonesia’s border regions have weakened nationalism and increased socio-economic dependence on Malaysia. On the border, civic education plays a crucial role in strengthening Indonesian nationalism, despite the community’s economic dependence on Malaysia. Through flag ceremonies, character education, and the integration of local wisdom into the curriculum, schools function as the final bastion of nationalism, safeguarding the national identity of the younger generation in the face of economic inequality and transnational influences. Using a qualitative approach that integrates ethnographic and etnopedagogic methods, data were collected through participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. The findings indicate that Indonesian border communities experience a dual identity, marked by both symbolic loyalty to Indonesia and pragmatic attachment to Sarawak, Malaysia. Economic disparities between the two countries, especially in access to infrastructure, education, and labour markets, have heightened social dependency and eroded Indonesia’s national identity. However, the integration of local wisdom and etnopedagogic practices in education in both countries has proven effective in strengthening cultural resilience, social cohesion, and national consciousness among students. Cultural rituals such as Gawai Dayak serve as transnational spaces of solidarity that both connect and differentiate the two nations.
Implementation and violations of election principles in the 2024 Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections of the Republic of Indonesia
This study examines the implementation of electoral principles mandated in Article 22E of the 1945 Constitution—direct, universal, free, confidential, honest, and fair elections—in the 2024 Indonesian presidential and vice-presidential elections, which were marked by legal controversy following Constitutional Court Decision Number 90/PUU-XXI/2023. A socio-legal approach was employed, combining document analysis, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with election organisers and supervisory bodies. Data were analysed qualitatively using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldana interactive model, involving data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. The principles of direct and universal suffrage were generally upheld. However, the principles of free, confidential, honest, and fair elections were only partially implemented. Violations identified include money politics, lack of institutional neutrality, power intervention, and vote mobilisation practices. These findings indicate persistent structural weaknesses in Indonesia’s electoral democracy, particularly in the 2024 elections. The study highlights the urgent need for strengthening institutional integrity, improving coordination among supervisory bodies, and enforcing election law more effectively. Enhancing public participation and oversight mechanisms is essential to ensure the full realisation of democratic electoral principles in future elections.
Collective resistance and institutional change: Feminist movements and victims' organizations in Mexico’s fight against impunity
Mexico faces a crisis of impunity marked by femicidal violence, disappearances, and institutional flaws. This study examines how feminist and victims' groups resist impunity by analysing their strategies, conditions for change, and justice reforms. Using mixed methods, the research analysed 847 events from 2014-2024 through content analysis, along with 32 interviews and 385 documents. Techniques like regression and network analysis identified patterns and key factors. Movements fight impunity by exposing state failures, creating alternative knowledge, using international frameworks, disrupting normalcy, and raising visibility. Events with legal and direct tactics were 3.17 times more likely to prompt responses (p<0.001), and coalitions increased this to 2.21 (p<0.001). Only 5.5% led to documented action, with responses often punctuated and temporary. Organisational efforts between feminist and victims' groups grew from 12.7% (2014-2019) to 31.4% (2020-2024), showing strategic alignment. Findings reveal an insurgent accountability system where civil society fills state gaps. Effective accountability involves diverse tactics, engaging institutions, external pressure, and strong coalitions. These insights enhance understanding of social movements, accountability, and justice amidst high impunity.
Social media: A means of developing Generation Z's political participation in the digital era
This article examines how social media is utilised to enhance broader political participation among young people. The study employed a descriptive survey design using a Google Form, complemented by in-depth interviews conducted between September and December 2024. The participants consisted of 356 Generation Z individuals in Pekanbaru City, including first-time student voters and pre-voters. Data were analysed using descriptive techniques based on survey responses, expressed as percentages. The findings reveal three main typologies. First, social media functions as the primary source of political information due to its accessibility, practicality, up-to-date content, comprehensive coverage, and visually engaging format. Second, social media serves as a medium for political communication, where individuals engage by following political accounts, commenting on posts, or passively consuming content that still influences their daily discussions. Third, social media serves as a platform for political expression, as evidenced by reactions such as likes, dislikes, content sharing, and reporting. The study suggests that voter education actors should optimise their social media presence by producing engaging, accessible content aligned with current trends, such as podcasts, short videos, reels, and interactive Q&A formats. Collaboration with educational institutions and youth communities is also essential. Ultimately, these strategies aim to foster meaningful political participation among Generation Z, extending beyond electoral involvement to more active non-electoral engagement.
A The Indonesia-Malaysia border as a simulacrum of nationalism: A hyperreality study of the Jagoi Babang community in West Kalimantan
This article seeks to investigate how simulacra are carried out by Malaysia and the efforts of the border community in Jagoi Babang to maintain their identity with a spirit of nationalism towards Indonesia. Using Baudrillard's theory of hyperreality and simulacra, this study explores how the border community filters various simulacra efforts carried out by Malaysia to change the reality of the border community towards Indonesia. This study uses a case study approach involving observation, documentation, and interviews with 15 informants from various backgrounds. The findings show that Malaysia creates simulacra by giving Indonesian communities in the border region free access to Malaysian state facilities. Meanwhile, the border communities make two efforts to maintain their national identity and avoid being influenced by Malaysian simulacra. First, they strengthen nationalism by using the Indonesian language. Second, they defend their culture through cultural activities and training for the younger generation. The research has theoretical and practical implications because the community has the active ability (agency) to reject simulacra, thereby enriching Baudrillard's theory. In practice, strengthening language and culture at the border is a vital form of non-military national resilience that must be integrated into border policy alongside security and economic approaches.
Roots and resilience: Tracing the rise of conservative Islamic movements in Indonesia
Although Indonesia is not formally an Islamic state, the idea of establishing one has remained a recurring theme in the country’s political discourse. From the pre-independence period to the reform era, discussions surrounding the Islamic state have persisted and never entirely disappeared. The notion continues to develop, reflecting the aspirations of certain segments of Indonesia's Muslim population. These groups, often referred to as conservative Islamic factions, are characterised by their adherence to textual interpretations of Islamic teachings and their desire to integrate religion and state within a legal and governmental framework. The emergence of conservative Islamic groups in Indonesia was not spontaneous. Rather, their development follows a long historical trajectory traceable to the pre-independence or nationalist movement period, when the country was still under colonial rule. During this era, the embryonic idea of an Islamic state began to form within Sarekat Islam (SI), then the largest Islamic organisation in the archipelago. SI would later serve as a precursor to the rise of other Islamic movements, such as Masyumi and DI/TII, which also pursued the formal integration of religion into state structures. However, the aspirations of these conservative Islamic groups for an independent Indonesia grounded in Islamic principles were ultimately thwarted during the BPUPKI session on June 1, 1945, when Pancasila was adopted as the philosophical foundation of the Indonesian state.
AI-driven service quality and customer engagement: The mediating role of digital empathy and cognitive absorption
The aim of this study is to investigate how AI-driven service quality (AISQ) influences customer engagement (CE) in the e-commerce industry in Pakistan. This study examines the mediation of digital empathy (DE) and cognitive absorption (CA). It concerns discovering how AI-driven service quality affects customer interactions through emotional and cognitive processes. Through an online survey, data were collected from 321 e-commerce clients in Pakistan. The current study used convenience sampling. A five-point questionnaire was used for data collection. The statistical tool SPSS 22.0 was used for correlation and regression analysis. The conceptual framework was built on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Trust-Commitment Theory (TCT) to determine the association among AISQ, DE, CA, and CE. The proposed hypotheses and their mediation effects were tested using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The findings of the present study indicate that AISQ has a positive impact on CE. DE and CA play an important role in mediating this relationship. The results of this study show that when customers perceive AI-based services as empathetic and interesting, they are more likely to become engaged with an e-commerce platform. This paper is a contribution to the research on AI and customer behaviour, as it reveals that DE and CA are significant intermediate variables between AISQ and CE. The results are valuable to e-commerce leaders in Pakistan, helping them improve customer engagement and loyalty through emotive, compelling AI solutions.
The threat of animated films to national disintegration in the dimension of character formation of alpha generation
This research departs from the growing urgency of the high consumption of foreign animated films among Generation Alpha in Mataram City, which may weaken national identity and character. The selection of Mataram City as the research site is grounded in its role as a heterogeneous social laboratory; it serves as a strategic case study to examine the tension between deeply rooted local traditions and the pervasive influence of global digital media. This study aims to explore how foreign animation shapes children's perceptions and to gain a profound understanding of potential shifts in national integration values in their everyday lived experiences. The primary subjects are Generation Alpha children (aged 4–12 years), purposively selected to provide deep insights, with parents and teachers serving as secondary informants for data triangulation. The specific object of the study is the phenomenon of identity construction and the potential erosion of national character resulting from prolonged media exposure. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, data were obtained through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The findings reveal that intensive daily exposure to foreign animation leads to the internalisation of global values, manifested in the imitation of foreign accents and a shift toward individualistic behaviour, thereby challenging traditional social cohesion. Conversely, local animations such as Nussa & Rara are found to reinforce religiosity, cooperation, and manners. These results underline that without media literacy and support for local content, foreign animation poses a challenge to national identity. Systematic synergy between schools, families, and the government can transform animation into a strategic tool for strengthening character education and national integration.
Implementation of augmented reality-based digital citizenship learning to improve students' civic communication competence in higher education
Civic education is not limited to contemporary learning through traditional methods. Students are encouraged to actively participate through dialogue, collaboration, contribution, and discussion. Thus, the resulting discussions can stimulate their critical thinking regarding social issues. This study aims to analyse the implementation of augmented reality-based digital citizenship learning to improve the civic communication competence of higher education students. This study uses a qualitative case study approach. The participants in this study were 15 students from communication studies who took civic education courses. In-depth interviews were conducted using semi-structured techniques to collect data. The results of this study indicate that the use of augmented reality in civic education courses can help students identify forms of digital citizenship. Students can practise their civic communication competence through the DC-AR application. In addition, students can use the DC-AR application independently through their smartphones. Thus, the DC-AR application can be an alternative digital citizenship learning technology that can minimise the spread of hoaxes. Students are also encouraged to practise their social and cultural literacy skills through civic communication practices. This study concludes that civic education is not limited to theoretical elements. In higher education, civic education can be integrated with technology and communication science. Students not only understand digital citizenship but are also able to implement it through the DC-AR application by practising communication. The DC-AR application can also instil citizenship communication competencies in students as a strategy to improve the quality of human resources through education.
Assessing student readiness through artificial intelligence-based comics to enhance literacy and Indonesian local wisdom values
This study evaluates the use of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated comics as an instructional medium for assessing students’ literacy skills and their understanding of Indonesian local wisdom values. In the context of increasing educational digitalisation, this research explores how AI-generated comics can be integrated into culturally oriented learning. The study employed a mixed-methods design involving 450 students from 15 schools across seven provinces in Indonesia. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests, student response questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and participatory observations. The findings show a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in students’ performance after using AI-generated comics, with average increases of 32% in literacy scores and 28% in students’ understanding of local wisdom. Qualitative analyses indicate that students responded positively to the interactive comic format, which provided personalised content aligned with their preferences and learning needs. Overall, the results demonstrate that AI-generated comics can serve as an effective instructional tool for integrating digital technology with culturally relevant learning materials, offering implications for curriculum development and instructional practices in Indonesia.
The influence of teachers’ professional and pedagogical competence on the enhancement of students’ civic knowledge
Civic Education plays a strategic role in shaping students’ awareness of their rights and responsibilities as citizens. However, its effectiveness in Indonesia remains a challenge, particularly in improving students’ civic knowledge. Teachers’ competence, particularly professional and pedagogical competence, is a crucial factor in supporting the quality of teaching and learning. This study aims to examine the influence of teachers’ professional competence (X1) and pedagogical competence (X2) on students’ civic knowledge (Y), both partially and simultaneously. The research employed a quantitative, survey-based approach. The sample consisted of all Grade 11 students taking the Civic Education course at St. Fransiskus Xaverius Seminary Senior High School in Tomohon, selected using a total sampling technique because the entire population that met the study criteria was included (n = 41). The results of the analysis revealed that teachers’ professional competence has a significant effect on improving students’ civic knowledge (the calculated t-value (3.763) > the critical t-value (2.02); sig. 0.001 < 0.05). Teachers’ pedagogical competence also partially shows a significant influence on students’ civic knowledge (the calculated t-value (7.004) > the critical t-value (2.02); sig. 0.000 < 0.05). Simultaneously, both independent variables significantly affect students’ civic knowledge (the calculated F-value (47.273) > the critical F-value (3.24); sig. 0.000 < 0.05). The coefficient of determination (R2) indicates that teachers’ professional and pedagogical competence jointly account for 71.3% of the enhancement of students’ civic knowledge. In comparison, the remaining 28.7% is influenced by other factors not examined in this study.
Indigenous ecological wisdom as civic virtue: The Tiaytiki practice in Papua, Indonesia
This research explores the local wisdom of Tiaytiki of the Yepase community in Jayapura Regency, Papua, as a form of citizen virtue in caring for and maintaining the sustainability of marine ecology. The ancestors have passed Tiaytiki down to the current community, which serves to preserve marine resources through zoning mechanisms, prohibitions on overexploitation, and the application of customary sanctions. Rooted in local beliefs and cosmology, Tiaytiki is not only a technical customary rule but also a substantial moral expression that emphasises collective responsibility, social solidarity, and spiritual awareness to live in harmony with nature. The research has been conducted qualitatively using the case study method. Research data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation. The analysis shows that there are five dimensions of civic virtue in Tiaytiki: spiritual, social, educational, marine-ecological, and institutional, which can serve as a model for caring for nature. This model not only serves as a mechanism for marine conservation but also as an educational tool to instil ecological character in the younger generation. The findings confirm that Tiaytiki is the intersection of civic ecology and civic virtue, and that it contributes to the development of contextualised civic education oriented towards environmental sustainability.
Revitalizing the Lampung language through illustrated conversation books: A sociolinguistic approach
The Lampung language is currently facing a decline in daily use among younger generations, raising concerns about its potential endangerment. This study investigates the role of illustrated conversation books as a pedagogical tool to support the revitalisation of the Lampung language, using a sociolinguistic approach that considers learners’ perceptions, motivation, and attitudes toward language preservation. Data were collected through a questionnaire distributed to 102 respondents, with items grouped into three aspects: perceptions of book design, motivation to learn Lampung, and attitudes toward language preservation. The findings indicate that 82.4%–84.3% of respondents agreed that illustrations and attractive visual design improved comprehension, engagement, and enjoyment in learning. Motivation-related responses were moderately positive (67.6%–70.6%), with students expressing pride in learning Lampung but showing a need for broader reinforcement from cultural and social contexts. Attitudes toward preservation were strongly positive, with 91.1% agreeing that illustrated books can be an effective strategy for safeguarding the language, although only 55.9% expressed willingness to teach it to others. These results align with multimedia learning theories and sociolinguistic perspectives on language revitalisation, highlighting the importance of visual pedagogical resources while underscoring the need for community and institutional support. The study concludes that illustrated conversation books can serve as effective entry points for revitalising the Lampung language. The illustrated conversation books serve as a new pedagogical tool for teaching and preserving the Lampung language. This book can also provide a fresh assessment of students’ perceptions, motivation, and attitudes toward learning in Lampung.
Building ecological citizenship awareness for a healthy Indonesia
Environmental issues are increasingly pressing globally, including in Indonesia, where pollution and environmental damage continue to rise. In this context, ecological citizenship awareness has emerged as one solution to address these challenges. This study aims to analyse the level of ecological citizenship awareness among the community in Indonesia and to assess the impact of this awareness on community participation in environmental cleanliness and preservation programs. The method used is a literature study, which involves collecting and analysing related literature, including journal articles, research reports, and policy documents. The literature criteria applied include relevance, source reliability, and year of publication to ensure that the information obtained is accurate and up to date. The results of the study indicate that ecological citizenship awareness in Indonesia varies, with much of the literature emphasising the importance of environmental education in improving community understanding. The discussion also indicates that although awareness is high, implementation in real action is often hampered by a lack of support from facilities and policies. This study recommends strengthening environmental education programs and collaboration between the government and the community to create a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
Women's resilience against politically driven digital violence and legal responses analysis in Indonesia
Women’s responses to politically driven digital violence have become increasingly significant in Indonesia, where such threats undermine equal political participation. Despite the existence of legal frameworks governing elections, digital spaces, and gender-based violence, many remain legally inadequate and insufficiently responsive to women as victims of cyber violence. Existing studies tend to treat digital violence as a cybercrime issue or focus narrowly on women’s political participation, often neglecting its digital dimension. This study addresses that gap by conducting a comprehensive normative legal analysis within the broader framework of democracy and human rights. Using a normative legal research method and literature review, it examines the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia, CEDAW, and relevant legal instruments, including Human Rights Law, Election Law, Electronic Information and Transactions Law, Law on Sexual Violence Crime, and regulations issued by the Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection and the General Election Commission. The findings indicate that digital political violence against women commonly manifests as intimidation, sexual harassment, and misinformation aimed at discrediting their credibility and dignity. The study also highlights women’s resilience and resistance strategies. Documenting these experiences contributes to the development of more inclusive, adaptive, and responsive legal frameworks that ensure safe, meaningful political participation in digital spaces.
Pedagogical innovations and structural barriers in cultivating participatory civic skills in Indonesian higher education
This study addresses a critical gap in the literature on cultivating participatory civic skills in higher education in the digital era. While the importance of such skills is widely acknowledged, little is known about how educators practically conceptualise and assess them. Employing a qualitative phenomenological approach, this research collected data through open-ended questionnaires completed by Civic Education lecturers from diverse higher education institutions across Indonesia. The data were analysed using reflective thematic analysis. The findings show that lecturers demonstrate a robust theoretical understanding of participatory civic skills; this conceptual grasp does not systematically translate into assessment practices that effectively measure participatory learning outcomes. Although pedagogical innovations such as project-based learning and digital platform integration are being adopted to create more authentic learning experiences, their implementation is hindered by structural barriers. These include excessive administrative workloads, inflexible curricula, and inadequate technological infrastructure. Theoretically, this study contributes by highlighting the critical disconnect between pedagogical theory and assessment praxis in civic education. In practice, it underscores that fostering participatory skills necessitates not only classroom-level innovation but also institutional reforms, specifically rationalising workloads, increasing curricular flexibility, and developing authentic assessment models tailored for digital-era civic learning.
Beyond the 'official' religions: A normative framework for religious recognition in Indonesia
The regulation of religious recognition in Indonesia remains problematic to this day. Research on the regulation of religious recognition has not been conducted to date. As a country with diverse religions, Indonesia faces unique challenges in managing religious life for substantive citizenship. The terminology of "recognised" and "unrecognised" religions, as well as "official" and "unofficial" religions, is one of the factors that hinder the fulfilment of the right to religious freedom for Indonesian citizens. The regulation of religious recognition in Indonesia must address significant legal issues to achieve justice and legal certainty. Inclusive reforms, policy harmonisation, and stronger enforcement mechanisms are essential to ensure that all religious groups are treated equally under the law. These efforts must align with both constitutional principles and international human rights standards to uphold justice and legal certainty in the recognition of religion. Religious recognition must be in line with the spirit of the Indonesian nation, which upholds respect for human dignity, guarantees freedom of religion and belief, and upholds equality, non-discrimination, justice, and legal certainty. This paper is the result of normative research on the regulation of religious life in Indonesia, particularly regarding the recognition of religions in the country. The study concludes that, to date, there is no comprehensive regulation regarding the recognition of religions in Indonesia. Therefore, in the future, the formulation of such regulations is an urgent necessity. The regulation of religious recognition must prioritise the principles of equality, justice, and legal certainty. Indonesia needs fair religious recognition and legal certainty based on Pancasila
Democratic regression and the rise of electoral illiberalism in Indonesia: A multi-dimensional analysis (1998-2024)
Since the political transition of 1998, Indonesia has been widely regarded as a leading case of democratic consolidation in Southeast Asia. However, recent empirical indicators reveal a persistent decline in civil liberties, political pluralism, and institutional accountability. This article examines whether Indonesia is experiencing democratic regression and investigates the emergence of electoral illiberalism as a durable regime trajectory rather than a temporary fluctuation. Methodologically, this study employs qualitative thematic-narrative analysis, triangulating constitutional amendments, electoral laws, Constitutional Court decisions, and executive regulations with international democracy indices, including the Economist Intelligence Unit and Freedom House, from 1998 to 2024. This approach enables a longitudinal assessment of institutional and normative transformations across key democratic dimensions. The findings demonstrate that democratic regression in Indonesia is not marked by the collapse of electoral competition, but by the weakening of horizontal accountability, erosion of the rule of law through systemic corruption, contraction of civic space, and strategic mobilization of majoritarian identity politics. These dynamics reveal how electoral continuity coexists with substantive democratic erosion. This article contributes to debates on democratic backsliding by showing that Indonesia’s trajectory has consolidated into electoral illiberalism, challenging linear models of democratic consolidation and highlighting the limits of electoral democracy.
The effect of digital ethics as a civic virtue on ChatGPT misuse behavior among high school students
The development of artificial intelligence technology, such as ChatGPT, has had a significant impact on education worldwide, including in Ambon City. However, its use often raises the risk of misuse, especially in cases of plagiarism, task manipulation, or the instant completion of academic assignments. The research method used is a descriptive, non-experimental, quantitative approach, with 120 high school students in Ambon City as respondents. This research aims to analyse the association between digital ethics as a civic virtue and ChatGPT misuse, and to identify the relationship between indicators in both variables. The research instrument consisted of 15 indicators of digital ethics and 15 indicators of ChatGPT misuse. The results showed that the digital ethics instrument had very good reliability (Cronbach's Alpha = 0.867), and ChatGPT misuse behaviour also had very high reliability (Cronbach's Alpha = 0.932). Fourteen of the 15 indicators of digital ethics and all indicators of ChatGPT misuse were declared valid. This research also showed a positive and significant influence between digital ethics and ChatGPT misuse behaviour (r = 0.203, p = 0.027). Although the correlation is weak, a p-value <0.05 indicates that the relationship remains significant. This relationship suggests that students who have knowledge of digital ethics do not always practice ethical behaviour when using ChatGPT. This finding provides new insights into the complexity of students' digital behaviour, suggesting that an understanding of digital ethics does not always guarantee ethical behaviour in the digital realm, necessitating the need for more effective digital citizenship education strategies.
The impact of cafes on the socialisation patterns and social interaction of young people in the digital era
This study aims to examine the impact of cafes as gathering places for young people on their socialisation patterns and social interaction in the digital era. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative surveys, in-depth interviews, and observations of young people who frequently visit cafes. The findings indicate that cafes serve as important spaces for social interaction, both face-to-face and through digital media. Key findings highlight the benefits of cafes in facilitating social gatherings, discussions, and remote work, while also revealing negative impacts such as reduced quality of face-to-face communication due to digital device usage. This study contributes to understanding the role of cafes as hybrid spaces combining physical and digital interactions. Policy recommendations include promoting healthy face-to-face communication while leveraging cafes' positive potential to build social networks among young people.
Police transformation within constitutional democracy design: Evidence from Indonesia
Indonesian National Police (Polri) institutional position following the 1998 political transition remains a contested terrain, particularly in reconciling operational independence with the demands of democratic governance. This study investigates how Polri has navigated that tension, drawing on a mixed-methods design that integrates diagnostic mapping of 130 institutional problems, structured surveys with 167 experts distributed across 50 districts and cities, and a comparative analysis of policing frameworks in France and the Netherlands. The findings expose a fundamental contradiction within Act No. 2/2002. While the legislation formally separates Polri from military structures, it simultaneously creates an accountability vacuum, a concern reflected in the 61.7% of expert assessments that are unfavourable. Field data further document three entrenched dysfunctions: a militaristic organisational culture, integrity failures concentrated in investigative units, and chronic service deficiencies flagged repeatedly in ombudsman evaluations between 2020 and 2023. Building on these findings, the study advances a transformation framework organised around four mutually reinforcing pillars: humanist policing grounded in rights protection, anti-corruption governance through merit-based systems, technology-enabled service modernisation, and community-centred precision policing. Proposed reforms target legislative revision, restructuring of professional education, and the development of civilian oversight mechanisms with genuine supervisory authority. The study offers a replicable analytical model for evaluating police reform trajectories in post-authoritarian democratic settings.
Project citizen digital: A learning model of civic education in digital age
Civic education plays a crucial role in fostering responsible citizenship and developing comprehensive civic competencies. In Indonesia, it holds a strategic position as a compulsory subject mandated by the government and implemented across all universities. This study aims to investigate the impact of Project Citizen Digital on students’ civic competency in higher education. Employing a quantitative approach, the research focuses on the implementation and evaluation stages of the ADDIE model following the development of the Project Citizen Digital application. A one-group pretest–posttest design was used to assess changes in students’ civic competency before and after the intervention. The study involved 480 undergraduate students from Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, consisting of 400 students in the first cohort and 80 students in the second. Data were analyzed using paired-sample statistical tests through SPSS. The findings indicate a statistically significant improvement in students’ civic competency after engaging in Project Citizen Digital-based learning. This is evidenced by a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.000, which is lower than 0.025, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. The results confirm that the intervention produced a meaningful difference between pretest and posttest scores. Therefore, Project Citizen Digital demonstrates strong potential as an innovative and effective model for integrating digital technology with participatory civic learning in higher education.
Mass media as an instrument for political education of young generation: Opportunities and challenges in the digital era
In an era in which information flows freely across countless digital channels, understanding how mass media shapes young people's political consciousness has become increasingly vital. This study explores the intricate relationship between mass media—both traditional and digital—and political education among the youth, drawing from democratic theory and media literacy frameworks. Through a comprehensive examination of existing literature, we uncover a fascinating paradox: while today's young generation enjoys unprecedented access to political information and opportunities for civic discourse, they simultaneously face formidable challenges, including media manipulation, echo chambers, and a concerning erosion of trust in news institutions. Our findings reveal that the effectiveness of mass media as an educational tool is not straightforward. Rather, it is mediated by critical factors such as media literacy skills, socioeconomic contexts, and the quality of democratic institutions within which young people operate. In contexts where Indonesian youth navigate their political identities—from bustling cities to remote villages—these dynamics play out in unique ways that deserve careful attention. This research makes a compelling case that effective political education in the digital age requires more than just access to information. It demands integrated approaches that combine formal education, robust media literacy programs, and collaborative efforts among media organisations, educational institutions, and civic groups. The goal is not merely to create informed citizens, but to nurture a generation of young people who can think critically meaningfully in democratic life. As we stand at this critical juncture, the choices we make today about media systems, education, and democratic culture will shape the quality of citizenship for generations to come.
Digital populism in political communication research: A systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis (2015-2025)
This study investigates the development of digital populism in political communication research through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) and a bibliometric analysis of the Scopus database. Using the PRISMA screening framework, 18 relevant journal articles published between 2015 and 2025 were identified, suggesting that although research in this field remains limited, it has shown a notable increase, particularly after 2021. The findings indicate that the concept of digital populism has evolved from an initial focus on online activism and networked resistance to a more comprehensive framework that explains how populist messages are strategically created, distributed, and amplified through digital platforms and their underlying logics. Bibliometric mapping reveals key thematic clusters of digital populism, nationalism, and populism, with discourse analysis as the dominant methodological approach. Furthermore, the synthesis highlights five defining characteristics of digital populism: people-centrism, emotional communication, political visualisation, virality, and direct participation. Despite these insights, the literature remains heavily concentrated in Western contexts, with limited contributions from Asia and the Global South. Accordingly, future studies should broaden data sources and pursue comparative research across diverse sociopolitical contexts to enhance theoretical and empirical understanding.
Beyond quotas: Women’s substantive participation and democratic consolidation in Timor-Leste
Women's political participation in post-conflict states presents a persistent paradox: numerical gains in representation rarely translate into substantive policy influence. Focusing on Timor-Leste, where quota legislation elevated women's parliamentary representation to 38% by 2023, this study examines the structural, institutional, and sociocultural conditions that mediate the conversion of descriptive into substantive representation. A systematic literature review (2015–2025), conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and synthesising peer-reviewed studies, institutional reports, and policy documents, frames the analysis through critical actor theory, feminist institutionalism, and intersectionality. Findings reveal that patriarchal norms, elite gatekeeping, institutional fragility, and gender-based political violence collectively constrain women's policy agency despite formal numerical gains. Conversely, coalition-building, gender-responsive budgeting, leadership development, and anti-violence mechanisms emerge as critical enablers for translating presence into influence. Substantive women's participation is further shown to advance democratic consolidation by broadening accountability and enhancing institutional legitimacy in fragile state contexts. Comparative analysis of Rwanda and Nepal affirms that quota-driven reform must be accompanied by cultural transformation to yield durable outcomes. The study contributes theoretically by advancing integrated gender-governance frameworks, empirically by situating Timor-Leste within comparative post-conflict scholarship, and normatively by generating recommendations aligned with SDG 5, SDG 16, and ASEAN gender frameworks. Sustainable democratic governance ultimately requires moving beyond formal quotas towards structural and cultural change that secures women's substantive empowerment.
The evolution of Turkish nationalism: From the Ottoman empire to the Republic of Turkiye
The transformation of Turkish nationalism is a unique phenomenon in the ideological transition of a nation. This study aims to explore the shifts in Turkish nationalism from the Ottoman Empire era to the modern Republic of Turkiye. Turkish nationalism will be explored using a qualitative approach, focusing on an in-depth literature review to trace the trajectory of nationalism's transition in Turkish history. Data collection was combined with non-participant observation of the implementation of nationalist practices in daily life or national celebrations in Turkiye. This method was chosen to produce data that provides comprehensive information about Turkish nationalism. Analysis was carried out using Benedict Anderson's 'Official Nationalism' theory to examine the role of state control and Anthony D. Smith's 'Ethnic Core' to understand the process of societal mobilisation. Research results show that the transition of Turkish national identity is very dynamic and undergoes changes in accordance with the needs of Turkish citizens and the policies of their leaders. Turkish nationalism attempts to be shaped by myths and ethnic symbols as well as the collective memory of Turkish citizens regarding their love for the Anatolian homeland, while still implementing top-down governance. During the transition and implementation, Turkish nationalism presents enduring conflicts between the Kemalist/Secular faction and the Conservative faction. The conflict between these two factions manifests as a rejection of Islamic values and of ethnicity, which often coexist. Based on the observations, nationalism is well implemented and arises naturally without coercion within Turkish society
Digital citizenship for sustainable development goals: A character-based approach in civic education
This paper explores the transformative role of character-based digital citizenship in redefining civic education in the digital era. Amid the rapid flow of information and the growing negative impact of technology on national values, civic education must be adaptive and relevant. The study highlights the strategic contribution of digital citizenship to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Target 4.7, which emphasises education for sustainable development and global citizenship, and Target 16, which supports peaceful and inclusive societies and access to justice. This research applies a descriptive qualitative approach, using a systematic literature review strategy combined with thematic analysis, to critically and in-depth explore relevant scientific literature. These findings suggest that integrating character education into digital citizenship fosters ethical awareness, responsible digital behaviour, and democratic participation. This synergy strengthens civic competence and promotes inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable educational settings. The study provides strategic insights for educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers, proposing new conceptual models that align digital citizenship with global citizenship goals and advance 21st-century citizenship learning.
Mapping the “Aksi Bela Islam 212” effect: Redefining identity politics in Indonesian scholarship 2011–2023
While identity politics has been central to modern political disputes, little work has systematically explored how its discursive deployment has limited interpretations in Indonesia. This paper seeks to fill that gap by examining changes in Indonesian academic discourse from 2011 to 2023 through a systematic literature review and content analysis of 60 peer-reviewed scholarly articles, adopting a Foucauldian genealogical method. Our findings reveal that in the initial phase of our baseline period (2011–15), identity politics was commonly represented as a cultural and ethnic phenomenon or, alternatively, as a natural outcome of plural democracy. A significant rift occurred in 2016–2017, when the “Aksi Bela Islam 212” (action to defend Islam) and the Jakarta gubernatorial election mobilised religious identities and harnessed them as a major academic frame. By 2019, scholarly opinion had little else to call identity politics than religio-electoral arrangements in the register of polarisation and democracy’s perils. However, termination, along with alternative expressions such as gender and ethnic empowerment, received considerably less attention until more recently. The narrowing identifies how Indonesian scholarship has prioritised high-stakes religious electoral politics over broader and more emancipatory identity politics. The research, therefore, highlights how discourse, power, and knowledge production interpenetrate to shape identity politics in post-authoritarian Indonesia.
Community policy model in preventing pedophilia crimes in the community on an ongoing basis from the perspective of community citizenship policy
This study was prompted by the alarming prevalence of sexual violence against children in Indonesia and the continued dominance of repressive approaches in dealing with pedophilia crimes. Historically, public policy responses have focused excessively on criminalisation and law enforcement, with the police as the main actor. This study uses a qualitative approach based on a literature review, utilising the interactive analysis model includes data reduction, conceptual data display, and conclusion drawing through cross-source verification. The findings indicate that addressing the multidimensional complexity of pedophilia requires a preventive governance structure involving six key sectors ( hexahelix model): the government acts as a regulator and legal supervisor; academics providing an evidence-based foundation through empirical research; the business sector contributing with technological innovations for protection and corporate social responsibility (CSR); the media shaping public opinion and conducting educational campaigns; communities acting as agents of daily social supervision and early detection; and civil society organizations (CSOs) focusing on policy advocacy and victim mediation. Optimising this cross-sector collaboration effectively builds a strong social ecosystem grounded in citizen responsibility, the core values of Pancasila, and the strengthening of participatory social control. In addition, this study proposes a practical, operational syntax structured into five integrated stages to ensure the systematic implementation and sustainability of the model. This research contributes to the conceptual and practical development of civic education as a preventive public policy tool, grounded in active citizen participation, to create an environment that protects children.
Mapping of global citizenship research in Indonesia 2011-2025: A bibliometric study
This study explores the landscape of global citizenship education (GCE) in Indonesia from 2011 to 2025. Despite being a critical issue closely linked to national values such as Pancasila and religious moderation, the current discourse remains fragmented. Using a bibliometric approach with the Bibliometrix R package and Scopus data, the research maps publication trends, keywords, and collaboration networks. Findings reveal a significant surge in publications since 2019, peaking in 2023, driven by Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national policy shifts. While character education and democracy remain dominant themes, newer topics like digital citizenship and religious moderation are emerging. However, research is heavily concentrated in Javanese teacher-training institutions and lacks global collaboration. Vital gaps include a low integration of ecological issues and a limited interdisciplinary focus. The study concludes that future research must bridge these gaps by prioritising digital literacy and environmental sustainability within the framework of Indonesian citizenship education.
Freedom and borders: A theory of citizenship for the age of globalization
Freedom and Borders: A Theory of Citizenship for the Age of Globalization, written by Dario Mazzola, challenges traditional notions of citizenship in light of our more interdependent global community. Through a philosophical and historical prism, Mazzola examines the interplay of human rights, freedom, citizenship, and world peace. Citizenship status is usually used to safeguard individual rights in modern citizenship systems, according to this book. This is because these systems are largely founded on the nation-state paradigm. In a world where people are increasingly on the move, migrating across borders, and becoming more connected, this situation poses many problems. Citizenship, as Mazzola points out, is a crucial political institution that establishes individual rights, social recognition, and political participation. This book proposes a more inclusive model of citizenship and discusses the tension between global and national citizenship. This discussion greatly enhances our comprehension of how a more equitable, inclusive, and human rights-oriented political system may be established in this age of globalisation, as well as the prospects for the future of citizenship.