What is the Role of Journalism in the Political Advocacy of Health Policy in Indonesia?

Abstract

This commentary article explores the complex relationship between journalism, health policy, and political campaigning in Indonesia that merits deepening as a scholarly endeavor. The paper highlights the important role of journalism in informing public discourse and decision-making on health policy while recognizing the challenges posed by misinformation and the erosion of public trust in the media. The paper discusses how journalism (digital and social media) has influenced health policy advocacy and public opinion, underscoring the media's impact on health communication campaigns and policy reform. By analyzing the various roles of (media) journalism as a health policy advocate, the article shows how journalism serves as a bridge between health policy experts and the public, facilitating a more informed democratic engagement with health policy. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of fostering a relationship between journalism that upholds democratic values and health policy advocacy to promote public health priorities in Indonesia.