The Impact of Identity Politics in Elections on Social Polarization in Urban Indonesian Communities

Abstract

This study examines the impact of identity politics on social polarization during elections in urban Indonesian communities. Identity politics, which focuses on group affiliations based on ethnicity, religion, and other social identities, has gained significant prominence in recent electoral processes in Indonesia. This research seeks to understand how identity-based campaigns and political strategies influence social division and collective identity in urban settings. By analyzing the 2019 presidential election as a case study, the paper explores the ways in which political parties and candidates have leveraged religious, ethnic, and regional identities to mobilize voters. Through surveys and interviews with urban voters, the study reveals how such strategies contribute to increased polarization, affecting social cohesion and intergroup relations within diverse urban communities. The findings suggest that while identity politics may enhance political engagement among certain groups, it also exacerbates social cleavages, deepening mistrust and dividing communities along identity lines. The paper highlights the long-term implications of identity politics for the social fabric of urban Indonesia and discusses potential measures to mitigate polarization, emphasizing the importance of inclusive political discourse in maintaining national unity.