The Pandemic Politics in Indonesia: A Comparative Perspective

Abstract

This manuscript aims to examine the political literature on the pandemic in Indonesia, especially regarding the relationship between politics and the COVID-19 pandemic without leaving the exploration of the views of scholars in the world who address the discussion of this relationship. This study produces several discourses, including, first, countries in the world implement policies depending on the dynamics that exist in that country. The majority implement a lockdown policy or cut off transmission between regions. Indonesia has a somewhat looser policy than other countries, namely large-scale social restrictions (PSBB) while still paying attention to community economic activities. Second, in many cases, electoral trust depends on the successful handling of the pandemic by the ruling regime or even the steps in handling the pandemic by contesting candidates. Third, the election of regional heads simultaneously with the crisis in Indonesia is considered counterfactual. However, the fact is that voter participation has increased from the three previous regional elections. The true form of Indonesian political culture is implied by the actions of the people who respect elections and prioritize health protocols. Fourth, the recommendation of the scholars is the application of political digitization in voting which requires a comprehensive study, especially regarding the readiness of Indonesian technology.