Government Discretion and Policy Regulations in Public Service Delivery in Indonesia

Abstract

Indonesia, as a Welfare State and a Rechtsstaat, requires the government to ensure public service and social protection for its citizens. However, unclear legal regulations often lead to administrative stagnation and obstacles in the delivery of public services. In such situations, the government can utilize the principle of government discretion to continue performing public service functions professionally and ethically while upholding transparency and accuracy of information. Policy regulations or beleidsregel serve as an important administrative instrument for executing government duties, although they are not formal law, as long as they do not deviate from higher-level legislation. This study analyzes the implementation of government discretion and the role of policy regulations in ensuring effective public service delivery. The research employs a literature review method to examine relevant literature and policies. Findings indicate that proper use of government discretion can enhance the effectiveness of public service, strengthen the professionalism of civil servants, maintain public trust in the government, and serve as a mechanism to adapt legal implementation to real field conditions.