In the digital era, social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have become important tools in the democratic process. Launching from Data Reportal, in 2023 there are a total of 167 million active social media users or 60,4 percent of the total population of Indonesia, while 153 million are users over the age of 18, and are therefore eligible to take part in the upcoming 2024 elections.
The widespread use of social media has the potential to have a significant impact on Indonesia's democratic landscape, such as increasing transparency and boosting the effectiveness of campaign efforts by allowing candidates to reach a wider audience and deliver their messages with greater specificity than previously possible.
Although social media has become a vital tool in election campaigns, it also presents potential risks and challenges. The impact social media is likely to have on Indonesia's upcoming presidential election deserves attention. This is due to the fact that it is closely connected to the potential for the spread of misinformation and hoaxes. Moreover, there are concerns that social media can be used as a political propaganda tool to shape public opinion, influence political decision-making and even determine the outcome of elections and the fate of a nation. Using social media in this maner can have a negative impact on the democratic process itself.
Reflecting on the 2019 election period, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (Kominfo) released striking results on the spread of hoaxes on various social media platforms. The report indicated at least 3.356 cases of hoaxes from August 2018 to September 30, 2019. In particular, the highest number of hoaxes, amounting to 501 cases, were found in April 2019, coinciding with the critical period of the Indonesian presidential and parliamentary elections. In addition, the report found 453 hoaxes in March and 402 hoaxes in May. As we all know, these were key moments leading up to and following the presidential elections. The increase in hoaxes during these key moments likely reflects the intensity of the political climate and the desire to influence public opinion, both of which have been amplified by the increasing reach and influence of social media platforms.
Given the potential impact of social media in electoral processes, it's important to recognize and address these risks by taking a multifaceted approach. There are many solutions that should be implemented in preparation for Indonesia's upcoming presidential election.
First, education and awareness. It is crucial to educate people about the potential risks of social media, including the spread of misinformation, and provide them with training on how to verify information online. This can be achieved through a variety of means, including public awareness campaigns, media literacy training, and social media guidelines from the government.
Second, regulation and enforcement. There must be regulations in place to ensure that social media is used responsibly during the electoral period. This may include regulations regarding the use of social media by political parties and candidates, and government bodies should monitor and enforce such regulations.
Third, collaborative efforts. Social media platforms, governments, and political parties need to work together to ensure fair and transparent electoral processes. This may include collaboration in initiatives to promote media literacy, provide training on responsible social media use, and ensure compliance with social media guidelines.
Fourth, transparency and openness.Governments and political parties must be accountable to the public for their use of social media during the electoral campaign. The public must be able to easily access information on the use of social media by political parties and candidates, and be able to hold them accountable for their actions.
Fifth, innovation and technology. It is essential to keep abreast of the latest technological developments and innovations that can aid in ensuring fair and transparent electoral processes. This may include the development of new tools and platforms to monitor and regulate the use of social media, as well as the development of artificial intelligence programs to detect and prevent the spread of misinformation.