Political coalitions in Indonesia: a complex interplay of governance, corruption, and healthcare spending.

Indonesia's Political Coalitions: Do They Deliver on Promises?

Reese Marlowe in Politics & Policy August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Unpacking the impact of majority coalitions on local spending, service delivery, and corruption in Indonesia."

In the vibrant landscape of Indonesian politics, local elections often result in the formation of coalitions—strategic alliances between political parties designed to secure a majority in local councils. These coalitions, known as 'majority coalitions,' are formed with the promise of improving local governance, boosting public services, and combating corruption. But do these political partnerships live up to their promises? A recent study delves into the impact of majority coalitions on local government spending, service delivery, and corruption in Indonesia, offering a revealing glimpse into the dynamics of local politics.

The study, published in the European Journal of Political Economy, examines whether these majority coalitions—defined as those controlling more than half of the council seats—actually lead to tangible improvements in the lives of Indonesian citizens. It explores the allocation of local government resources, the effectiveness of public services, and the prevalence of corruption, providing valuable insights into the inner workings of Indonesian local governance.

This article will unpack the study's key findings, shedding light on the real-world impact of political coalitions in Indonesia. By examining the evidence, we can better understand the factors that drive local government performance and the challenges of promoting effective and accountable governance in a decentralized political system.

The Promise of Coalitions: Healthcare Spending and Service Delivery

Political coalitions in Indonesia: a complex interplay of governance, corruption, and healthcare spending.

The study's initial findings paint a promising picture. Researchers discovered that majority coalitions tend to shift local government spending towards healthcare activities. This increased investment in healthcare translates into improved citizen access to health services, as more resources are channeled into clinics, hospitals, and public health programs.

This focus on healthcare may be a strategic move by coalition members, recognizing the importance of healthcare in the eyes of voters. By prioritizing healthcare spending, coalitions can demonstrate their commitment to public well-being and gain favor with the electorate.

Increased healthcare spending: Majority coalitions allocate more resources to the healthcare sector.
Improved access to services: Citizens experience better access to health services, such as clinics and hospitals.
Strategic political move: Coalitions prioritize healthcare to gain voter support.

However, this positive effect appears to be short-lived. The study reveals that the improvements in healthcare access are primarily observed in the first year or two of the coalition's existence. After this initial period, the positive effects tend to fade away, raising questions about the long-term sustainability of these gains.

A Call for Further Research and Enhanced Transparency

While the study offers valuable insights into the dynamics of political coalitions in Indonesia, it also underscores the need for further research. More in-depth investigations are needed to fully understand the factors that drive corruption and the ways in which political alliances can be structured to promote better governance. As Indonesia continues its journey of decentralization, it is crucial to strengthen local institutions, promote transparency, and ensure that political coalitions are truly serving the interests of the public.

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Everything You Need To Know

What are 'majority coalitions' in the context of Indonesian local elections, and what are they generally expected to achieve?

In Indonesian local elections, 'majority coalitions' refer to strategic alliances formed between political parties to secure a majority in local councils. These coalitions are typically expected to improve local governance by enhancing public services like healthcare, and to combat corruption. The expectation is that by consolidating power, these alliances can more effectively implement policies and address local issues.

How do 'majority coalitions' impact healthcare spending and access to services in Indonesia, according to the study?

The study indicates that 'majority coalitions' tend to initially increase local government spending on healthcare, leading to improved citizen access to health services such as clinics and hospitals. This boost is often observed in the early years of the coalition's existence. However, the positive impact tends to diminish over time, indicating the need for strategies to ensure the sustainability of these healthcare improvements. The study does not talk about the reason for diminishing impact but suggests further research.

Why might 'majority coalitions' prioritize healthcare spending, and what does this suggest about their motivations?

'Majority coalitions' might prioritize healthcare spending as a strategic political move to gain voter support. By focusing on public well-being, particularly in areas like healthcare that are highly valued by the electorate, these coalitions can demonstrate their commitment to addressing citizen needs and improve their popularity. This suggests that at least part of their motivation is driven by political expediency and the desire to maintain or increase their power.

What are the long-term implications of the study's findings on 'majority coalitions' and local governance in Indonesia?

The long-term implications suggest that while 'majority coalitions' can bring about initial improvements, such as increased healthcare spending and access, these effects are not always sustainable. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of these coalitions in driving lasting improvements in local governance. The study emphasizes the need for enhanced transparency, stronger local institutions, and further research to fully understand the dynamics of corruption and how political alliances can be structured to promote better governance and sustained positive outcomes.

What further research is needed to better understand the role and impact of political coalitions in Indonesia?

Further research is needed to delve deeper into the factors that drive corruption within 'majority coalitions' and to explore the specific ways in which political alliances can be structured to foster better governance. It's also important to investigate why the initial positive effects of these coalitions, such as improved healthcare access, tend to fade over time. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing strategies to promote effective, accountable, and sustainable governance in Indonesia's decentralized political system. More research could examine specific governance reforms or policy interventions that could strengthen the positive impacts of coalitions while mitigating potential downsides.