Bureaucratic transformation through digital governance: Insights from Jakarta smart city and Bourdieu’s habitus theory

Abstract

This study examines the transformation of bureaucratic habitus in Jakarta Smart City (JSC), Indonesia’s flagship digital governance initiative, through Pierre Bourdieu’s habitus theory, exploring how digitalization reshapes bureaucratic culture, service delivery, and citizen–state relations. The study employs a qualitative approach, combining focus group discussions with government practitioners, expert interviews, and secondary document analysis to capture structural, cultural, and technological dimensions of change. Findings reveal the emergence of a new bureaucratic habitus characterized by agility, data-driven decision-making, and efficiency, replacing rigid, paper-based, and instruction-oriented practices. Yet, challenges persist, including institutional silos, uneven digital literacy, political contestation, and diminished human interaction in public service delivery. The study concludes that the success of digital governance depends not only on technological innovation but also on institutional reform and cultural adaptation, with alignment between digital platforms and citizen empowerment essential for inclusive governance. Policymakers are encouraged to design frameworks that enhance transparency, responsiveness, and citizen-centered services while also mitigating risks of dehumanization. Integrating technological tools with socio-cultural realities remains crucial for achieving equitable and sustainable bureaucratic transformation.