Focus on the revision of the TNI Law and criticism of closed practices and the potential for "dual-functioning" restoration

Abstract

The revision of the TNI Law in 2025 has caused a polemic because it is considered to be carried out behind closed doors and has the potential to restore the practice of military dual functions. This raises concerns about the weakening of democratic principles and civil supremacy in post-reform Indonesia. This study aims to (1) analyze the practice of closed legislation in the revision process of the TNI Law, (2) evaluate the potential return of military dualism in the civilian sphere, and (3) examine public perception of the implications of the revision on democracy. The research uses a qualitative approach with a normative-empirical design. Data was collected through analysis of legal documents, interviews with academics and civil society activists, and online surveys of the general public. The triangulation technique was used to test validity, while the data analysis was carried out by the content analysis and thematic analysis methods. The results of the study show that the process of revising the TNI Law takes place with minimal transparency, with 67% of survey respondents considering the process to be not open. In addition, certain clauses in the revised draft open up opportunities for the involvement of the TNI in strategic civilian positions, which is considered a form of dual functional restoration. As many as 64% of respondents believe that the revision will restore the dual role of the military. These findings show the potential for democratic regression and democratic backsliding in Indonesia, and underscore the urgency of civil society surveillance to ensure that civil supremacy is maintained.