The primary objective of state financial assistance to political parties is to safeguard their independence. When political parties rely heavily on private donors to meet their financial needs, they are more likely to prioritize the interests of donors rather than those of their members or the public when making decisions and formulating policies. If this occurs, the role and function of political parties as vehicles for representing and advancing the interests of their members and citizens become diminished. This highlights the strategic importance of state financial assistance: it helps preserve the independence of political parties, enabling them to better represent and promote the interests of their members and the broader public.
This book is based on research examining policies on political party financial assistance, particularly those established under Government Regulation (PP) No. 5 of 2009. However, the study also reviews political party financing policies implemented since the 1999 General Election in order to identify important lessons and recommendations for future policy development.
Accordingly, the research includes conclusions drawn from a number of simulations designed to determine appropriate methods and levels of financial assistance for political parties. It is hoped that the findings of this research and the simulation results can serve as valuable inputs for the government in improving Government Regulation No. 5 of 2009. For this reason, the book also includes an appendix containing critical notes and analyses regarding the regulation.
