Political Resonance: A New Direction for Civic Movement in Quiet Indonesia

In 2026, Indonesia’s political landscape appears calm on the surface. Despite apparent stability, research indicates a resonant civic movement is happening beneath the surface. Political struggle has shifted from mass demonstrations to subtle expression through memes and satire aimed at authority. This creates resonance that, although less visible, continues to shape the country’s political scene. Researchers state that this shift is due to increased state control and the youth’s response to adapt through new forms of political engagement. Memes and humorous performances have become a new form of participation that provides critique and undermines the status quo, despite tight information control and the spread of drifting sense-making signals.