IMPLEMENTATION OF PROTOCOL GUIDELINES IN OFFICIAL ACTIVITIES OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT

A CASE STUDY OF NORTH SULAWESI PROVINCE, INDONESIA

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the implementation of protocol guidelines in official activities of the regional government of North Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, and to identify the factors influencing its implementation. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation. Informants were selected purposively from government officials involved in protocol activities. Data analysis followed the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña (2014), comprising data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that the implementation of protocol guidelines remains suboptimal, as indicated by inaccuracies in seating arrangements based on hierarchical positions, inconsistencies between planned and executed event agendas, weak inter-agency coordination, limited understanding of protocol regulations among officials, inadequate human resources, and the absence of integrated standard operating procedures. Factors influencing implementation include communication, resources, disposition of implementers, and bureaucratic structure, none of which are functioning effectively. The study concludes that strengthening coordination, enhancing official capacity, and developing integrated SOPs are essential to improve the quality of protocol implementation.