RI democratic

RI democratic
consolidation

From Bisnis Indonesia

The deepening and expansion of democracy, or democratic
consolidation, needs behavioral and institutional changes that
reflect socioeconomic demands and democratic values in society.

Studies of democratization have mentioned several factors
contributing to such consolidation: the quality of civil society,
the levels of consensus and nonconsensus among elite circles, the
bureaucracy's capacity and effectiveness, and the rule of law.

In phases, Indonesia is introducing changes in political
institutions to make the political system more representative and
responsive to public aspirations. Besides direct presidential and
regional-chief elections, new bodies have been set up, such as
the Constitutional Court and the Regional Representatives Council
(DPD).

The DPD is ideally expected to channel regional aspirations
and interests in national policymaking. Along with the House of
Representatives, the DPD can hopefully strengthen political
representation at the national level.

However, the DPD's role is seen by observers as less effective
because it lacks the House's authority, so that it only supports
House decisions. The issue and debate over the fuel price
increase recently is one example of this deficient role.

Meanwhile, to the general public, political institutions and
their performance are not only judged by the sufficiency of their
authority, but also by the extent these political bodies process
and decide on issues in society while achieving concrete
development gains.

BINNY B. BUCHORI
Jakarta