The Challenges of Maintaining Democracy in Indonesia

Since Indonesia gained its independence in 1945, democratic values have been continuously under threat. This article discusses the challenges faced in preserving democratic principles and the current state of democracy in Indonesia over the past two decades.

A Historical Overview of Democratic Threats

The Indonesian nation has faced numerous challenges to its democratic values since its independence. For example, in 1955, President Sukarno abolished the parliament and implemented a pseudo-Legislative government, effectively crowning himself with the title of lifelong president despite Indonesia being officially a republic with a democratic framework.

This was followed by the New Order era under Suharto (1966-1998), which was marked by authoritarianism, corruption, and the repression of journalism. During this period, government representation and transparency were virtually non-existent, and the bureaucracy operated in a opaque manner, allowing for unrestricted actions without public consent.

The Rise of Democracy: 1998 and Beyond

The year 1998 marked a significant turning point in Indonesia's democratic journey. Following decades of living under a dictatorship, the Indonesian people realized the detrimental effects of the New Order regime on both the nation and its democratic values. Under a combination of political turmoil and economic crises, Suharto was overthrown, leading to the Reformation era. This era was characterized by a commitment to upholding democratic values.

Current Challenges to Democratic Values

While the Reformation era brought about significant changes, the challenges to democratic values do not stem from authoritarian leaders or military strongmen as much as they do from the very people who participate in the democratic process. Today, individuals and groups that condone violations of democratic principles continue to pose a threat to Indonesia's democratic future.

Some of the current challenges include:

Bureaucratic Corruption: Despite efforts to combat corruption, it remains a significant issue. Bureaucrats often operate in a closed system, making it difficult to hold them accountable. Radicalism: There is a rising trend of radical Islamic fundamentalism that threatens the pluralistic nature of Indonesian society. This resurgence challenges the notion of a tolerant and inclusive democracy. Corruption: Corruption continues to undermine the rule of law and public trust in the institutions. This not only affects individual cases but also the overall functioning of the government.

Conclusion

The journey towards maintaining a truly democratic society in Indonesia is far from over. While there have been significant strides, the challenges persist due to the actions of the very people who are part of the democratic process. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from all segments of society, including the government, civil society, and the general public.

For more information on the challenges and progress towards democracy in Indonesia, continue to stay informed with reputable sources and participate actively in the democratic process.