The progress of Indonesian law enforcement reform after 25 years of the reform movement

Abstract

This study aims to examine the development of law enforcement reform in Indonesia, which has become very relevant after the economic crisis in Asia in 1997, which led to political turmoil and legal reform in Indonesia. This research is normative legal research, with primary data sourced from decisions of the Supreme Court and courts under the Supreme Court, regulations from the Attorney General’s Office and the National Police Chief, and decisions on case settlements by law enforcement officials; Secondary data obtained from books, journals, and the Internet. The study found that investigators and public prosecutors often settle cases out of court in criminal law enforcement with a restorative justice approach through peace and reconciliation. Judges sometimes act in violation of the rules of procedural law to achieve substantive justice. In enforcing civil law, courts only intervene when the parties involved fail to settle their disputes outside of court. This finding also indicates a high degree of acceptability of court decisions. In conclusion, law enforcement agencies and officials in Indonesia have made significant progress in implementing progressive law, as evidenced by the settlement of cases through mediation using a restorative justice approach.