Indonesia is currently facing a polycrisis, a political crisis characterized by declining democratic values, digital disruption, environmental crisis, and deterioration of public economic welfare.
Academics from universities are being urged to contribute to resolving these issues by reestablishing democratic values, which are beginning to fade in Indonesia.
“It is a crucial responsibility for academics to reintegrate democracy across various sectors of life. Democratizing in this context means reducing the concentration of power and empowering individuals to control their own decisions,” explained Professor Suharko, a sociology expert from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada (Fisipol UGM).
This speech was delivered during his academic remarks titled “The Urgency of Navigating University Initiatives to Respond to Polycrisis and Promote Inclusive Democracy,” delivered at the peak of Fisipol UGM’s 69th Anniversary on Thursday (Sep. 19).
Political sociology expert Dr. Arie Sudjito echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that democracy must be strengthened through Emancipatory Politics, a form of politics that involves the public at various levels, especially marginalized communities so that politics becomes part of their daily lives.
“This ensures that the public doesn’t remain indifferent when political violations occur,” stated Dr. Sujito during the seminar “Campus Civic Political Movement in Response to Democratic Regression, Digital Disruption, and Ecological Crisis.”
He referred to the 2024 election, which successfully eliminated political identity polarization but allowed dynastic politics to persist within the governance system.
“We don’t discuss ethics in everyday discourse; they are only mentioned during Constitutional Court hearings, but they are ignored in daily life. Emancipatory politics, however, brings public issues into daily practice, which is truly a form of political education,” he explained.
The seminar also featured three other speakers: politician Dr. Rieke Diah Pitaloka, legal expert Dr. Bivitri Susanti from the Indonesia Jentera School of Law, and Dr. Milda Longgeita Pinem, who served as moderator.
Dean of Fisipol UGM, Dr. Wawan Mas’udi, stated that this year’s anniversary aimed to reflect society’s current challenges.
“We are making an effort to reflect on these issues and offer solutions on what we can do,” he remarked.
In her opening speech, Professor Ova Emilia, Rector of UGM, congratulated Fisipol UGM on its 69th anniversary. She also appreciated the faculty’s various contributions to the nation, including innovative policy solutions and increasing the percentage of graduate students.
“I greatly appreciate Fisipol UGM for its contributions to the nation, which we hope will grow further with innovative achievements and a higher number of graduate students,” said Professor Emilia.
Author: Hanif
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afif