Mekanisme Redistribusi Horizontal: Studi Kasus Program Bantuan Sosial di Indonesia

The Indonesian government has implemented various social assistance programs to address poverty and inequality. These programs aim to redistribute wealth and resources to vulnerable groups, promoting social justice and economic development. One crucial aspect of these programs is the mechanism of horizontal redistribution, which focuses on transferring resources among individuals within the same socioeconomic strata. This article delves into the intricacies of horizontal redistribution, examining its role in social assistance programs in Indonesia, using specific case studies to illustrate its practical application.

Understanding Horizontal Redistribution

Horizontal redistribution refers to the transfer of resources from one individual or household to another within the same income or wealth group. It contrasts with vertical redistribution, which involves transferring resources from higher-income groups to lower-income groups. Horizontal redistribution aims to address inequalities within specific socioeconomic strata, ensuring that resources are distributed more equitably among individuals with similar economic backgrounds.

Case Study: Program Keluarga Harapan (PKH)

The Program Keluarga Harapan (PKH) is a conditional cash transfer program that provides financial assistance to poor and vulnerable families. It targets households with children, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities. PKH operates on the principle of horizontal redistribution by providing equal cash transfers to eligible families within the same income bracket. This ensures that all beneficiaries within a specific income category receive the same amount of assistance, regardless of their individual circumstances.

Case Study: Bantuan Langsung Tunai (BLT)

The Bantuan Langsung Tunai (BLT) program provides direct cash assistance to individuals affected by economic shocks, such as natural disasters or pandemics. BLT operates on a horizontal redistribution principle by distributing equal cash transfers to all eligible individuals within a specific geographic area or demographic group. This ensures that all affected individuals receive the same level of support, regardless of their individual income levels.

Benefits of Horizontal Redistribution in Social Assistance Programs

Horizontal redistribution plays a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness and equity of social assistance programs in Indonesia. By ensuring equal distribution of resources within specific socioeconomic strata, it helps to:

* Reduce inequality: Horizontal redistribution helps to mitigate inequalities within specific income groups, ensuring that all individuals within a particular stratum have access to essential resources.

* Promote social justice: By providing equal support to individuals with similar economic backgrounds, horizontal redistribution promotes social justice and fairness.

* Increase program efficiency: By targeting specific groups with equal assistance, horizontal redistribution can streamline program implementation and reduce administrative costs.

Conclusion

Horizontal redistribution is an essential component of social assistance programs in Indonesia. By transferring resources among individuals within the same socioeconomic strata, it promotes equity, social justice, and program efficiency. Case studies of programs like PKH and BLT demonstrate the practical application of horizontal redistribution in addressing poverty and inequality. As Indonesia continues to implement social assistance programs, understanding and leveraging the principles of horizontal redistribution will be crucial in ensuring that these programs effectively reach their intended beneficiaries and contribute to a more equitable and prosperous society.