How have the Philippines and Indonesia become more democratic in recent decades?
(1 point)
The military led coups to seize power
O Dictators imposed new constitutions.
O Civil wars divided the countries between governments.
Correct answer: O Civil societies and grassroots movements pushed for political reforms and increased civic participation.
In recent decades, the Philippines and Indonesia have experienced significant progress towards democracy. However, the developments in each country have been different. Here are the steps:
1. The Philippines:
- Step 1: After years of dictatorship under Ferdinand Marcos, a people's uprising known as the "People Power Revolution" occurred in 1986. This non-violent mass protest led to the ousting of Marcos.
- Step 2: Following Marcos' departure, a new constitution was ratified in 1987. This constitution included provisions to strengthen democracy, protect human rights, and establish checks and balances.
- Step 3: Regular presidential elections have been held since then, allowing for peaceful changes in leadership and encouraging political participation.
- Step 4: The establishment of a multi-party system has fostered a more diverse political landscape, allowing for broader representation of various interests and ideologies.
2. Indonesia:
- Step 1: Similarly to the Philippines, Indonesia experienced a long period of dictatorship under President Suharto from 1966 to 1998.
- Step 2: In 1998, widespread protests and riots led to Suharto's resignation and the end of his dictatorship.
- Step 3: A series of reforms were implemented, including the introduction of a democratic electoral system. This allowed for fairer elections and greater political participation.
- Step 4: The country's first direct presidential election took place in 2004, enabling the people to directly choose their leader.
- Step 5: Over time, Indonesia has seen a strengthening of democratic institutions, such as a more independent judiciary, a freer press, and increased civil liberties.
It is important to note that military-led coups, dictatorial impositions of constitutions, and civil wars have not contributed to the progress of democracy in these countries. On the contrary, they have often hindered democratic development. The steps mentioned above represent the positive changes that have occurred towards democratization.
To understand how the Philippines and Indonesia have become more democratic in recent decades, we need to analyze the factors that contributed to these changes.
Firstly, it is important to note that neither country experienced significant military-led coups to seize power, as mentioned in option (1). Instead, both nations underwent reforms through a series of political and societal changes.
In the case of the Philippines, one crucial event that supported its democratic transition was the People Power Revolution in 1986. This popular uprising involved millions of citizens peacefully protesting against the authoritarian rule of President Ferdinand Marcos. The democratic movement gained momentum, leading to his ousting and the subsequent establishment of a more democratic political system.
Likewise, Indonesia's democratic progress began with the fall of President Suharto in 1998. Suharto had been in power for over three decades and advocated for an authoritarian style of governance. His resignation came amidst widespread protests, economic struggles, and a demand for political reforms. This marked a turning point for Indonesia's democracy, opening up opportunities for greater political participation and accountability.
Furthermore, dictatorships imposing new constitutions, mentioned in option (2), did not significantly contribute to the democratic advancements of these nations. Instead, their transitions involved the drafting of new constitutions that increased civil liberties, protected human rights, and established checks and balances. These constitutions played a crucial role in promoting democratic values.
Lastly, civil wars dividing the countries between different governing bodies, mentioned in option (3), did not play a significant role in their democratic development. While both the Philippines and Indonesia have experienced internal conflicts and separatist movements, these conflicts did not directly lead to the establishment of democratic systems. In fact, the resolution of these conflicts often required efforts towards greater inclusivity and political stability.
In conclusion, the Philippines and Indonesia became more democratic in recent decades through significant social movements, citizen participation, and the establishment of new constitutions that supported democratic values. These countries' transitions were driven by internal pressures for political reforms and a desire for increased individual rights and freedoms.