RECALIBRATING SOCIAL PROTECTION: INSIGHTS FROM IMPLEMENTATION OF INDONESIA’S FAMILY HOPE PROGRAM (PKH)

Abstract

Poverty remains a significant impediment to inclusive development in Indonesia, particularly in limiting access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for low-income families. In response, the Indonesian government launched the Family Hope Program (Program Keluarga Harapan/PKH), a conditional cash transfer initiative designed to reduce poverty by encouraging school attendance and health service utilization among the poor. Despite its nationwide expansion and documented benefits, few studies have critically examined the program's implementation effectiveness across diverse regional contexts. This study employs a qualitative case study design, drawing on secondary data from national statistical agencies and official government reports, complemented by in-depth interviews with local officials, program implementers, and recipient households. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify key challenges and outcomes. The findings indicate that while PKH has positively impacted education participation and health service access among beneficiaries, its effectiveness is constrained by administrative weaknesses, including inconsistent beneficiary targeting, limited public awareness, and fragmented coordination between institutions. Regions with stronger infrastructure and proactive governance demonstrate better outcomes, whereas remote and underdeveloped areas continue to face significant implementation barriers. The study provides policy recommendations to strengthen data verification systems, enhance community engagement, and improve inter-agency coordination. By addressing these challenges, the program can become a more effective tool in achieving long-term poverty alleviation. This research contributes to the broader discourse on social policy effectiveness and offers practical insights for optimizing conditional cash transfer programs in developing countries.