Strengthening Local Democracy with Civic Political Literacy as Impact from The Role Local NGOs

Abstract

This research explores the impact of the South Sulawesi People's Child Advocacy and Education Institute Program in strengthening local democracy through civic political literacy. The importance of citizenship education and political literacy in building society to be involved and participate in the democratic process. The aim of this research is to determine the impact of the program's effectiveness in increasing political knowledge, citizen awareness and active participation in the context of local democracy in Pangkep Regency. This research method involves collecting data through interviews and participant observation. The research sample consisted of program participants and local stakeholders involved in program implementation. The collected data was analyzed using a qualitative approach. The research results show that the program continuously increases participants' political knowledge, builds citizens' awareness of community political rights and encourages active participation in the local democratic process. Through a participatory approach, program participants are encouraged to think critically, develop political analysis skills, and engage in discussion and collective action. The program succeeded in building partnerships with local stakeholders, strengthening social networks, and expanding its impact in the community. The conclusion of this research is that the LAPAR SULSEL program plays an important role in strengthening local democracy through civic political literacy. This program is effective in increasing political knowledge, citizen awareness, and active participation in the context of local democracy in the Makassar region. The implication is that in order to strengthen local democracy in a sustainable manner, continuous support is needed from the government, community and other stakeholders. In addition, the recommendations from this research can serve as a model for similar efforts in other regions to strengthen political participation and involve citizens in decision-making processes that impact society as a whole.

Keywords: Local Democracy; Civic Political Literacy; Institute of Advocacy and People Child Education Program.