How have the Phillippines and Indonesia become more democratic on recent decades
The Philippines and Indonesia have both made significant strides towards becoming more democratic in recent decades.
In the Philippines, the overthrow of the Marcos dictatorship in 1986 marked a turning point towards democratization. The subsequent ratification of a new constitution in 1987, which included provisions for free and fair elections, the protection of civil liberties, and the establishment of a multi-party system, helped to establish the country as a democracy. Since then, the Philippines has held regular and peaceful elections, with power shifting between various political parties. Civil liberties have also been expanded, and there has been a growing push for transparency and accountability in government.
In Indonesia, the fall of President Suharto in 1998 after more than three decades in power paved the way for a period of democratization. The country adopted a new constitution in 1999 that enshrined principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Since then, Indonesia has held multiple free and fair elections, with power peacefully transitioning between different political parties. Civil society has also become more active and vocal in pushing for democratic reform and advocating for the rights of marginalized groups.
Overall, both countries have made significant progress towards establishing democratic governance in recent decades, although challenges remain, including issues of corruption, inequality, and political instability.