5 days ago
23
March 11, 2025 | 09:06 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Human Rights Minister, Natalius Pigai, responded to findings from The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), which reported a decline in Indonesia’s Democracy Index. He emphasized that the EIU’s assessment reflects governance under former President Joko Widodo, not the current administration of President Prabowo Subianto.
“This data measures the decline in democracy in 2024, meaning it pertains to the previous government’s leadership,” Natalius said during a press conference at the Ministry of Human Rights on Tuesday, March 11.
He explained that the EIU evaluates democracy in Indonesia based on several variables, including the presence of legal regulations that restrict freedom of speech and expression.
“We must acknowledge that certain regulations have hindered democracy,” Natalius said. “Since 2015–2016 through 2024, there have been undeniably problematic regulations,” he added.
He noted that these regulations were enacted during Jokowi’s presidency, citing the National Police Chief’s Circular No. SE/6/X/2015, issued on October 8, 2015, regarding the handling of hate speech.
He also pointed to Government Regulation in Lieu of Law (Perppu) No. 2 of 2017 on Mass Organizations as another measure that restricted democratic space, along with the MD3 Law and revisions to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Law, which he argued contradicted democratic principles.
“The arrests of civil society activists since 2015 have also stifled the dynamics of democracy in Indonesia,” Natalius remarked.
The former commissioner of the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) expressed optimism about democracy under Prabowo’s leadership, asserting that Indonesia is now experiencing a “democratic surplus.” He cited the absence of political prisoners or criminalized activists in Prabowo’s first four months in office as evidence.
“Today, across all media, various groups in society can freely express their opinions, thoughts, and feelings,” he said. “No journalists have been arrested, have they?” he added.
A report from the London-based EIU previously revealed that Indonesia scored 6.44 on the 2024 Democracy Index, marking a continued democratic decline. The country fell three places, from 56th to 59th out of 167 nations assessed.
In comparison, Indonesia scored 6.53 in 2023 and 6.71 in 2022, reflecting a consistent downward trend in its democratic standing.
Editor’s Choice: PDIP Cites Jokowi's Arrogance as Reason for Democracy Index Setback
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Indonesia Begins Debate on Allowing Soldiers to Take Civilian Posts
23 menit lalu
After a landslide election victory last year, Indonesian President Prabowo has quickly expanded the armed forces' role.
Natalius Pigai Dismisses Fears of Authoritarianism Revival as Mere Imagination
2 jam lalu
Natalius Pigai downplays concerns over the resurgence of militarism and authoritarianism in Prabowo Subianto's government, calling them imagination.
Pandawara Group Raises Waste Permit Issues with Prabowo
4 jam lalu
Pandawara Group discussed environmental issues with Prabowo at the Presidential Palace, Central Jakarta, on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Electric Vehicles Fuel Indonesia's First Car Sales Growth Since June 2023
5 jam lalu
Indonesia's car sales in February rose 2.2% year-on-year, the first growth recorded since June 2023
Prabowo's 7 Economic Stimulus Measures for Ramadan and Eid 2025
5 jam lalu
Prabowo announces various economic stimulus policies ahead of Ramadan until Eid al-Fitr 2025, ranging from airplane ticket discounts to cheap markets.
Indonesia to Build Oil Refineries with Total Capacity of 1 Million bpd, Minister Says
6 jam lalu
Indonesia will build oil refineries on several of its islands, including Kalimantan and Sulawesi, with a total capacity of 1 million barrels per day.
Pandawara Group Meets with Prabowo, Discussing Waste Issues
7 jam lalu
President Prabowo invited the Pandawara Group to discuss environmental issues, especially waste problems.
Gojek, Grab to Grant Eid Cash Bonuses to Drivers Following Prabowo's Directive
7 jam lalu
Similar like Gojek, Grab will also provide a Eid bonus for online motorcycle taxi drivers through a special performance bonus program.
Indonesia to Mobilize Pro Chefs to Train Cooks for Free Meal Program
10 jam lalu
Indonesia is set to deploy professional chefs to train cooks for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) or the Free Meal program.
Top 10 Things to Do in Lombok: Must-Visit Spots and Activities
15 jam lalu
Discover the best things to do in Lombok, from sunbathing at stunning beaches to exploring hidden waterfalls. Plan your perfect island getaway today!
