A DECADE OF INDONESIAN POLITICS: THE ESCALATION OF POLITICAL INFORMATION DISORDER AND STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS IT IN THE DIGITAL ERA

Abstract

Over the past decade (2014–2024), Indonesia has experienced a significant escalation of information disorder, posing serious risks to democratic institutions and increasing the potential for social conflict. Employing a literature review approach, this study aims to analyze the dynamics of political information disorder in Indonesia and to evaluate existing mitigation strategies. The study examines 65 selected documents, including journal articles, books, survey reports, and policy regulations. Thematic analysis reveals that the dissemination of political information disorder in Indonesia has intensified markedly and has evolved into a systematic and organized operation, particularly during electoral periods. This ecosystem does not emerge spontaneously; rather, it involves a wide range of actors, from individual sympathizers to cyber troops and buzzers, driven by economic, political, social, and ideological motives. These challenges are further exacerbated by the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and deepfakes, which significantly increase the complexity of information disorder. Various countermeasures have been implemented, such as digital literacy initiatives, collaborative fact-checking, and law enforcement and regulatory interventions; however, these efforts still require critical evaluation.