Oversight of Special Authonomy Funds: Insights from the Papua Experience

Abstract

The granting of special autonomy to Papua, as mandated by Law No. 21 of 2001, carries significant implications for the oversight of funds allocated by the central government to the regional administration. The supervision of these funds presents unique characteristics and fiscal privileges; however, existing oversight mechanisms remain inadequate due to weak institutional coordination, insufficient guidance, and fragmented supervision across different levels of government. As a result, the management of special autonomy funds has failed to substantially improve democratic governance, both in terms of vertical relations between the central and regional governments and horizontal dynamics at the local level. Moreover, it has not led to significant socio-economic advancements for local communities. This study highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive and structured supervisory framework to enhance the accountability and effectiveness of special autonomy fund management in Papua. It proposes a multi-layered oversight model that integrates central supervisory institutions with regional bodies, ensuring a more cohesive governance structure. Strengthening transparency, fostering active community participation, and enforcing robust legal frameworks are essential to establishing sound financial governance and maximizing the developmental impact of special autonomy funds.