The documentary Amplop Demokrasi (Democracy of Envelopes) follows the political cost of local elections (Pilkada) in Indonesia in 2024, from campaign spending and oligarchic influence to the broader consequences for corruption and environmental decision-making.

As discussions around electoral reform continue, this screening offers a chance to step back and examine how money operates within the system. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with Titi Anggraini and Ward Berenschot.

Titi Anggraini is the former director of Perludem (Association for Elections and Democracy) and involved in current policy discussions about electoral reform in Indonesia.

Ward Berenschot is professor of comparative political anthropology at the University of Amsterdam and a senior researcher at KITLV.  Studying politics in India and Indonesia, Ward's research focuses on the role of money and informality in election campaigns, while a second field of research concerns the character of civil society and citizenship in these countries.

The film is a result of research and documentation by Ward. The film was made by Watchdoc.

Format, date, time & venue

This screening is an onsite event and will be held in the conference room of KITLV, Herta Mohr building, room 1.30, Witte Singel 27 A, Leiden on Tuesday 7 April from 16.00-17.30 PM (CET).  Registration is required.

Register here

This event is organized by PPI Leiden in cooperation with KITLV.

Trailer