Journal of Law and Humanity Studies
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): Journal of Law and Humanity Studies

The Indonesian Satpol-PP Model: Lessons for Local Governance and Public Order Enforcement in Decentralized States

Muhamad Pelengkahu (Faculty of Law, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Indonesia)
Rizjal Palengkahu (Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja (Satpol-PP) Manado Municipal, Indonesia)
Fajri M Kasim (Faculty of Social and Political Science, Universitas Malikussaleh, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
10 Apr 2026

Abstract

Decentralized governance often creates a gap between regulatory authority and enforcement capacity at the local level. This study examines the Indonesian Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja (Satpol-PP) as a model of subnational enforcement designed to address this challenge. This research employs a qualitative and comparative approach based on document analysis of legal frameworks, policy reports, and academic literature. It compares Satpol-PP with similar institutions in France, Germany, Canada, and the United States across key institutional dimensions. The findings show that Satpol-PP represents a hybrid civilian enforcement body operating under local government authority with administrative powers to enforce regional regulations and maintain public order. Compared to its international counterparts, Satpol-PP has a broader functional scope, strong political embeddedness, and a non-militarized character, though it faces challenges related to professionalism, legal clarity, and public legitimacy. Satpol-PP demonstrates that decentralized states can develop locally anchored, non-police enforcement mechanisms. While not universally replicable, its model offers valuable insights into institutional adaptability, civilian-based enforcement, and the importance of balancing local responsiveness with accountability and legal safeguards.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jlhs

Publisher

Subject

Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Law and Humanity Studies accommodates all studies on social dynamics and changes related or associated with law. Therefore, the study of criminal and civil law normatively (dogmatic law science), philosophically (legal philosophy), empirically (sociology and legal anthropology), and ...