Looking at the global rise of populism, from the United States to Europe and Latin America, we can draw lessons that may be useful for Indonesia. In many countries, populist movements have been accompanied by a backlash against globalization, a dissatisfaction with economic inequality, and a perceived loss of national identity. These same concerns are felt in Indonesia, where economic disparities between urban and rural areas remain significant, and where debates over national identity and political representation continue to shape the political discourse.
However, the global experience also shows that populism can be a double-edged sword. While it can energize the electorate and bring attention to overlooked issues, it can also lead to instability, the erosion of democratic norms, and even authoritarian tendencies. Leaders who rise to power through populist rhetoric must be vigilant in maintaining the integrity of democratic institutions, ensuring that their policies do not concentrate power in ways that weaken checks and balances.
For Indonesia, which is still consolidating its democratic institutions after the fall of the New Order regime in the late 1990s, the risks of unchecked populism are particularly pronounced. The country has made significant strides in its democratization process, with regular elections, a vibrant civil society, and a free press. However, these gains could be threatened if populist leaders prioritize personal power over democratic values.
Conclusion: The Future of Populism in Indonesia
As Indonesia moves forward, the challenge will be to harness the energy of populism without allowing it to undermine the democratic gains of the past few decades. Populist leaders, while potentially providing a voice for the marginalized, must be held to the same standards of accountability as any other political figure. The media, civil society, and voters all have roles to play in ensuring that populism does not evolve into a vehicle for authoritarianism or further division.For populism to genuinely benefit Indonesian democracy, it must be grounded in a respect for democratic principles, including rule of law, political plurality, and the protection of individual rights. Populist leaders must also recognize the importance of building consensus, rather than merely rallying against the so-called elites. The future of Indonesian democracy depends on whether the energy generated by populist politics can be channeled into positive change that enhances inclusivity, strengthens democratic institutions, and improves the lives of all Indonesians.
In the end, the rise of populism in Indonesia presents both an opportunity and a warning. It offers a chance to deepen democratic engagement and address long-standing societal issues, but it also poses significant risks if not managed carefully. The ultimate question is not whether populism will change Indonesia's political landscape, but whether it will do so in a way that strengthens or weakens the democratic foundations upon which the nation stands.
Reference
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Setijadi, C. (2017). Ahok's downfall and the rise of Islamist populism in Indonesia. Singapore: ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute.
Gammon, L. (2020). Is populism a threat to Indonesian democracy?. Democracy in Indonesia: Stagnation in regression, 101-117.
Yilmaz, I., Morieson, N., & Bachtiar, H. (2022). Civilizational Populism in Indonesia: The Case of Front Pembela Islam (FPI). Religions, 13(12), 1208.
