Reframing urban poverty: Policy dynamics and institutional interactions in Bekasi City

Bekasi City, Indonesia, has experienced significant economic growth over the past two decades, yet poverty remains a persistent issue, particularly in urban areas with high population density and a large informal sector. Despite various poverty alleviation policies implemented since 2003, such as social assistance programs and economic empowerment initiatives, poverty levels have remained stagnant or worsened, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article explores the dynamics of poverty alleviation policies in Bekasi, focusing on the roles of political actors, institutions, and ideologies in shaping these policies. The research aims to analyze the evolution of poverty alleviation strategies and assess the effectiveness of these policies in addressing the root causes of poverty. Using a qualitative approach, the study examines policy shifts, actor interactions, and institutional responses, with a particular focus on the institutional challenges faced during the pandemic. The article introduces a new conceptual model for understanding poverty alleviation, emphasizing the need for an integrated, adaptive, and holistic approach that aligns policy, institutional reform, and community engagement. The findings suggest that Bekasi’s poverty alleviation efforts must transition from short-term relief to long-term structural interventions that promote sustainable development.