Name : Cahyani Putri Mondo

NIM : 105641108420

DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE

In the mid-5th century BC, demos and kratos were the names for the political systems
that prevailed in several Greek cities at that time, one of which was Athens. As a form of
government, democracy is the opposite of monarchy. In a monarchy system, government is
held by the king, queen, or emperor. A democratic system is also different from an oligarchy.
In an oligarchic government, power is held by a few people (Bevir, 2010).
Democracy is also at odds with the system of aristocracy, or government by the
privileged class. Democracy is also different from despotism, or absolute government by one
person. The ancient Greeks were the first to practice democracy in communities the size of
cities. Some of the democratic bodies they formed were assemblies (Gerring & Thacker,
2008). The assembly is widely imitated in democratic countries, one of which is Indonesia.
Democracy is a form of government in which all citizens have equal rights in making
decisions that can change their lives. Democracy allows citizens to participate either directly
or through representatives in the formulation, development, and creation of laws. Democracy
includes social, economic, and cultural conditions that enable the free and equal practice of
political freedom. Democracy is also a set of ideas and principles about freedom as well as
practices and procedures. Democracy implies respect for human dignity.
Indonesia's first president, Soekarno, said that Indonesian democracy was born from
the will to fight for independence. According to Soekarno, Indonesian democracy laid its
embryo in resistance to imperialism and colonialism. Furthermore, democracy is a way of
forming a government that gives the people the right to participate in the government process.
The democracy that Soekarno wanted did not want to imitate modern democracy which was
born from the French Revolution. Because, the democracy produced by the French
Revolution only benefited the bourgeoisie and became a place for capitalism to grow.
Muhammad Hatta, believes that the democracy of native Indonesian society originates
from the spirit of togetherness or collectivism. This collectivism manifests itself in an attitude
of helping each other, mutual cooperation, and so on. Collectivism in native Indonesian
society also means making decisions through deliberation to reach consensus. This is
different from the habits that apply in individualistic Western democratic systems.
Democracy, as a system of government that gives voice to the people, adopts various
forms that reflect the diversity of culture, history and values of society. Through its evolution,
democracy has taken different forms in different countries, forming a colorful political map
of the world (Franck, 2017).
One of the most common forms of democracy is representative democracy. In this
system, the people elect their representatives through general elections to represent their
interests and views in the legislative body. These representatives are then responsible for
making decisions that represent the majority vote. Representative democracy allows broad
participation without having to involve every individual in the daily decision-making process
(Gerring et al., 2005).
 However, representative democracy also faces criticism, especially regarding its
inability to accommodate the diversity of views and interests of society. The risk of gaps
between representatives and the people they represent is a serious challenge, and there needs
to be an effective mechanism to ensure accountability and transparency in decision making.
In contrast, direct democracy involves the direct participation of the people in
decision making without involving intermediaries or representatives. Citizens have the right
to decide policies directly through referendums or voting (Jackson, 2002; Skelcher, 2005).
Direct democracy creates active and direct involvement of the people in the political process,
reducing the risk of inequality in representation.
However, direct democracy has its own challenges. The large scale of populations and
the complexity of political issues can make it difficult for every citizen to have a deep
understanding of every decision taken. Therefore, political education and equitable
information are the keys to the success of direct democracy.
Consensus democracy, reflected in systems such as those implemented in
Switzerland, emphasizes the concept of reaching mutual agreement. The decision-making
process involves intensive dialogue and negotiation between various community groups and
political parties. The main goal is to reach an agreement that is acceptable to as many parties
as possible, creating stability and shared prosperity.
However, consensus democracy also has weaknesses, especially in terms of
effectiveness and speed in making decisions. Processes that are long and tend to be
complicated can hinder quick responses to urgent problems. Therefore, consensus democracy
requires a balance between achieving agreement and efficiency in decision making (Franck,
2017).
With technological developments, electronic democracy or e-democracy is becoming
increasingly relevant. Involving the use of information and communications technology to
facilitate popular participation in decision-making processes, electronic democracy creates
platforms that allow citizens to interact and contribute online.
However, electronic democracy also raises questions regarding data security,
technological accessibility, and potential inequalities in participation. These challenges
emphasize the importance of developing equitable digital infrastructure and data protection
policies to ensure electronic democracy can be an inclusive and reliable tool.
The diverse forms of democracy reflect the diversity of values and social contexts of
society in various parts of the world. Each model has its own strengths and weaknesses, and
the challenges facing democracies are a call to continue developing and improving these
systems. In facing the complexity of global problems, it is important to understand and
explore various forms of democracy in order to harness the collective power of society in
achieving shared prosperity.
Democratic government is a form of government system that gives power to the
people to participate in decision making. This concept is based on the principles of freedom,
equality and justice, which are expected to be able to create inclusive and just social
conditions. Democratic government is not just a political structure, but is also the foundation
for the sustainability of shared prosperity. In this essay, we will explore the essence of
democratic government, the challenges it faces, and how this concept can contribute to a just
and sustainable society.
 Democratic governance has three main pillars that form the foundation of this system.
First, people's participation is the main key. Through general elections, the people have the
right to elect representatives who will represent their interests in the legislative body. This
participation creates a sense of ownership and responsibility for the decisions taken by the
government (Gerring & Thacker, 2008).
Second, the principles of equality and freedom are the moral foundation for
democratic government. Every citizen is recognized as having equal rights, regardless of
race, religion or social status. Freedom of expression and assembly are also an integral part of
this system, enabling society to participate actively in the democratic process.
Third, the system of control and balance of power ensures that no single power can
abuse its authority. The division of power between the executive, legislative and judiciary
creates a system of mutual supervision, which is a check and balance in ensuring that abuse
of power does not occur.
Despite having noble values, democratic government is not free from challenges that
can hinder its effectiveness. One of the main challenges is the low level of participation in
general elections. Many citizens feel apathetic or lack confidence that their participation can
bring about real change. Therefore, efforts need to be made to increase public awareness of
the importance of active participation in the democratic process (Franck, 2017).
Apart from that, political polarization also poses a serious threat to democratic
government. Divisions between political parties and community groups can weaken
collective power and hinder the government's ability to make decisions that support the
common good. In facing this challenge, dialogue and in-depth understanding between various
parties is needed so that society can unite in achieving common goals.
Despite facing various challenges, democratic governance has great potential to make
a positive contribution to the collective prosperity of society. First of all, democratic
government provides space for public participation in the policy-making process. This creates
a sense of ownership and responsibility for the decisions taken, so that people are more likely
to support the implementation of the policy.
Furthermore, democratic governance provides the basis for the protection of human
rights. Through the principles of freedom and equality, every citizen has the right to live in
dignity and without discrimination. This is the basis for creating an inclusive society, where
every individual is recognized and valued (Cantelli et al., 2011).
Democratic governments also encourage innovation and sustainable development. By
providing freedom of expression and assembly, people can freely express new ideas and
criticize policies that are deemed inappropriate. This is what opens the door to sustainable
scientific, technological and economic development (Bevir, 2010). Democratic governance,
with all its advantages and challenges, is a crucial foundation for creating a just and
sustainable society. Through active community participation, upholding human rights, and
promoting innovation, democratic governments can be a positive force in facing various
complex social and economic problems.
For this reason, a joint commitment is needed from the government, political
institutions and society to strengthen democratic principles. Only by working together and
supporting each other, democratic government can be a milestone in creating a better future,
where every individual has a role and voice in determining the direction of society's
development.
 Pancasila, as the basis of the Indonesian state, not only contains philosophical and
moral values, but also provides direction to the government system, especially in the context
of democracy. The principles of democratic government based on Pancasila reflect the spirit
of inclusiveness, active participation of the people, and joint efforts to achieve prosperity and
social justice.
One of the principles of democratic government based on Pancasila is wisdom in
deliberation/representation. It emphasizes the active participation of the people in the
decision-making process. The People's Representative Council (DPR) as a legislative
institution in Indonesia is a clear example of the application of this principle. The DPR is the
democratically elected representative of the people, ensuring that the people's voice is
represented in the decision-making process at the national level.
In this context, it is important to ensure that this representation is inclusive and fair.
The diversity of Indonesian society must be reflected in the representatives elected so that the
resulting policies can reflect the interests of all levels of society.
The principle of social justice, which is one of the main points of Pancasila, forms the
basis for democratic government. In its implementation, the government must actively ensure
that the basic rights of every citizen are fulfilled, including the rights to education, health and
work. The distribution of wealth and opportunities must also be carried out fairly, keeping
countries away from inequalities that can be a source of conflict and dissatisfaction.
A government that is democratic and based on Pancasila must be an agent of change
that has a positive impact on the welfare of society. This includes policies that support the
fulfillment of basic rights, poverty alleviation, and community economic empowerment.
The principle of mutual cooperation in Pancasila teaches the spirit of togetherness and
active involvement of the entire community in the development process. In a democratic
government, mutual cooperation is reflected in broad community participation in public
policies and development projects. The government, along with the people, must collaborate
to identify problems, formulate solutions, and implement policies that support sustainable
development.
In this context, the government has an important role in creating participatory spaces
that stimulate creativity and innovation. Community empowerment through dialogue and
involvement in the decision-making process creates a sense of shared ownership and
responsibility for the country's future.
The just and civilized humanitarian values in Pancasila place human rights as the
main principle in democratic government. Protection of the basic rights of individuals,
without discrimination, is essential in creating a civilized society. In the context of
democracy, the government must ensure that every action and policy taken is in accordance
with human rights principles.
In an effort to maintain just humanity, the government must ensure continued fair law
enforcement, eradicate discrimination, and protect vulnerable groups. Fairness in law and
treatment forms the basis for a society that lives side by side peacefully.
Pancasila places nationalism as an important value, emphasizing love for the
homeland and the continuity of state sovereignty. In a democratic government, this value
creates a spirit of unity and togetherness in facing various challenges. Maintaining unity is
the key to overcoming potential internal and external conflicts.
 Nationalism also includes sustainable management of natural resources and national
wealth. A democratic government must be committed to maintaining state sovereignty, while
ensuring that natural wealth and economic benefits are generated for shared prosperity.
The principles of democratic government based on Pancasila create a solid foundation
for the development of a fair, just and sustainable society in Indonesia. Mutual cooperation,
social justice, just and civilized humanity, and nationalism, are key elements that must
continue to be maintained and strengthened.
It is important to remember that implementing these principles is not an easy task and
must involve the active participation of all elements of society. The government, legislative
institutions and society must work together to ensure that democracy based on Pancasila can
become an effective instrument in achieving true prosperity and justice. Only by consistently
maintaining and applying these principles can Indonesia move forward as a democratic
country that is sovereign, fair and just.
Democratic government is a system of government that gives power to the people to
participate in decision making. In my view, democratic government is not only important, but
also essential for the development and well-being of society. First of all, democracy creates a
balance of power that is very necessary to prevent abuse of authority. In a democratic system,
power is divided among various government institutions, such as the executive, legislative
and judiciary. This division creates a system of mutual supervision, where each branch has a
role in balancing the power held by other branches. This functions as protection against
potential tyranny or monopoly of power that could harm the interests of society.
Additionally, a democratic government gives people the right to participate in making
decisions that affect their lives. Through general elections, citizens have the opportunity to
elect their representatives in the legislative and executive institutions. This participation gives
the people an active role in determining the direction of government and the policies that will
be implemented. This is what creates a sense of ownership and responsibility for the
decisions taken by the government.
Furthermore, democracy creates an environment that supports the protection of
human rights. In a democratic system, basic rights such as freedom of opinion, assembly and
association are recognized as inviolable rights. This creates a society that is more inclusive
and respects individual freedom, avoiding oppression and discrimination.
Democracy also creates mechanisms to respond to changes and societal aspirations.
With an orderly election process, the government can change according to the wishes of the
people. This creates flexibility and adaptability in responding to challenges and changing
times. Therefore, democracy becomes a system that is able to develop and adapt to the needs
of society.
Furthermore, democratic governance promotes accountability and transparency. In a
democracy, the government must be accountable to the people. Elected leaders must be
accountable for their decisions and explain the actions they take to the public. This
transparency creates trust between government and society, which is the basis for a healthy
and constructive relationship.
I believe that democracy also plays an important role in overcoming conflict and
creating peace. In a society that has a democratic mechanism, conflict can be expressed
through political channels and dialogue. The democratic process provides citizens with a
legitimate channel to express their opinions and dissatisfaction without having to resort to
violence. In this way, democracy can be a force leading to stabilization and peace.
Of course, democracy is not without challenges. Challenges such as political
polarization, low voter participation, and the risk of populism can threaten the stability of
democracy. However, I believe that these challenges can be overcome through better political
education, increasing civic engagement, and encouraging more constructive public
discussion.
In my view, democratic government is the best way to create an inclusive, fair and
just society. Although imperfect, democracy provides a foundation for the development of a
society that respects individual rights, prevents abuse of power, and empowers people to
participate in the development process. By maintaining and strengthening democratic
principles, we can ensure that government remains a means of achieving common goals and
the welfare of society.
Democratic government, as a system where power lies in the hands of the people, has
a number of advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered in depth. Although
democracy is considered the most inclusive and fair form of government, it cannot be denied
that this system also has challenges and limitations that need to be taken into account. One of
the main advantages of democratic government is the active participation of the people in
decision making. In this system, the people have the right to elect their representatives
through general elections, so that every citizen has the opportunity to contribute to the
direction of the country.
Democratic governments tend to implement better human rights protection.
Democratic values, such as freedom of expression and the right to justice, are the basis for
making laws that protect individual basic rights. The basic principle in democratic
government is the division of power between the executive, legislative and judiciary. This
creates balance and avoids concentrations of power that have the potential to become
authoritarian.
Democracy provides room for innovation and flexibility. An orderly election process
allows society to replace leaders who are ineffective or do not represent the interests of the
people.
One of the drawbacks of democratic government is the instability that may occur due
to policy changes every time a general election occurs. In addition, decision-making
processes involving many parties can be slow and inefficient. Democratic systems are prone
to populism, where political leaders can exploit popular discontent to gain political support,
even if that involves unhealthy rhetoric or unsustainable policies.
Although democracy aims for social justice, in practice, there is still the potential for
social and economic inequality. Unequal political and economic forces can influence policies
and the distribution of resources. The era of information and social media brings the risk of
manipulation of public opinion. Inaccurate reporting and disinformation can influence public
perceptions, which in turn can influence election results.
As an individual, I see the advantages of democratic government as a strong
foundation for building an inclusive and just society. The ability of the people to participate
in the political process and the protection of human rights are principles that I highly value.
For me, democracy creates space for diversity of opinion and encourages the government to
be accountable to the people.
 However, I also realize that democratic government is not without weaknesses.
Instability and inefficiency in decision making can be an obstacle to rapid progress. I feel
there is a need for better political education so that people can make informed and responsive
decisions. Populism is also a personal concern of mine. I see the need for greater
transparency and accountability from political leaders to avoid populist rhetoric that can
divide society.
In my view, democratic governance is a step in the right direction towards a better
society, but the challenges it faces require serious attention. There may be a need for reforms
in the political system and improvements to democratic mechanisms to ensure that
democratic values are maintained while responding to the challenges of changing times.
Overall, democratic government remains the right choice for creating a just, free and
prosperous society. However, we as citizens also have a responsibility to be actively
involved, support political education, and contribute to shaping the direction of government
to suit the needs and aspirations of society.
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