Digital Sovereignty or Regulatory Overreach? The Case of Indonesia’s Platform Registration Policy

Abstract

The growing authority and influence of digital platforms has sparked debate over how much sovereignty governments should exercise in regulating them. While asserting digital sovereignty is important for countering external influences, including those from digital platforms, it also risks giving states excessive control over citizens. This article examines a regulation issued by Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Information that requires private digital platforms to register with the government. Using thematic analysis of YouTube discussions and interviews with government officials, the article explores the reasoning behind the policy and how it plays out. The study finds that the regulation reflects a narrow understanding of digital governance, focused on territorial control and state authority. Although the policy aims to map digital businesses, ensure fair competition, and protect users, the registration requirement may fall short of these goals. It treats digital platforms like traditional companies requiring licenses and gives authorities access to user data, enabling them to remove content and cut off access in cases of non-compliance. The article concludes that to better achieve its objectives, Indonesia should revise the regulation and develop more tailored, sector-specific rules that reflect the unique nature of digital platformsand their role in society.