REDEFINING POLITICAL EDUCATION IN THE DIGITAL ERA: POLITICAL PARTY FUNDS AND DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP MATURITY IN INDONESIA

Abstract

The digital era demands a fundamental transformation in political education practices, particularly in forming digitally competent citizens (digital citizenship). This study examines the influence of political party fund allocations in Indonesia as a political education instrument in promoting digital citizenship maturity at the national level. Using a qualitative approach through policy document analysis, regulations, and political party financial accountability reports, this study examines the extent to which the distribution and utilization mechanisms of party funds, as regulated under Government Regulation No. 1 of 2018,  contribute to improving digital literacy and civic political participation. The findings indicate that political party fund allocations in Indonesia have not substantially contributed to fostering digital citizenship maturity, owing to weak orientation of political education programs toward digital competencies, minimal accountability in fund utilization, and the absence of measurable success indicators in the digital citizenship dimension. This study argues that a paradigm redefinition of party political education is required, one that transcends procedural compliance and is oriented toward citizens' digital empowerment. The results are expected to contribute to policy reform in party fund governance and the strengthening of digital democracy in Indonesia.

Keywords: Digital Citizenship, Digital Literacy, Digital Democracy, Political Education, Political Party Fund