Paradox of Jakarta Special Region Autonomy in Decentralization and Deconcentration: A Governance Perspective
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26905/pjiap.v11i2.17170Keywords:
Decentralization, Deconcentration, Governance, Regional autonomyAbstract
This study analyzes the paradox of regional autonomy in the Jakarta Special Capital Region (DKI Jakarta) from a governance perspective, focusing on the intersection of decentralization and deconcentration. As the capital city, DKI Jakarta possesses a unique status that allows the central government to retain significant control over strategic sectors. This research employs a qualitative approach using literature review and policy analysis, drawing on reputable international (Q1–Q3) and nationally accredited (Sinta) academic sources. The findings reveal that Jakarta’s autonomy is inherently paradoxical: while decentralization is formally implemented, deconcentration mechanisms substantively constrain it. Authority remains partially distributed between central and local governments, and the region’s autonomy in policymaking is limited. Central government intervention is particularly evident in strategic sectors such as transportation, spatial planning, and infrastructure development. Furthermore, decentralization's effectiveness in improving public service delivery remains inconsistent, and public participation tends to be procedural rather than substantive. The relationship between central and local governments also reflects a predominantly subordinate pattern, indicating persistent centralization tendencies. This study concludes that Jakarta’s governance reflects a form of “quasi-decentralization,” where decentralization and deconcentration coexist simultaneously. This condition shows that decentralization in Indonesia is neither uniform nor fully realized, as political, institutional, and strategic considerations shape it. Therefore, policy reforms are necessary to clarify authority distribution, strengthen local institutional capacity, and enhance coordination between central and local governments to achieve more balanced and effective governance.
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