5.28.2008

Observing Reformation Progress Report

Written by Any Rufaidah

Without memorize, the age of reformation is 10 years. 10 years are enough time to realize the national expectation expected. The expectation of reformation is realization of democracy. Democracy is dead point that should be created in this nation called zamrud khatulistiwa. Reformation rise from serious condition of New Orde era, in where individual and collective rights are pressed by many ways.


The rise of reformation is the fact of society fatigue on repression, domination, and marginalization. Catching activists, firing mass media, and disciplining social organizations are the example of repression which should be ended. Finally, on May 21st 1998 reformation is boom in where Soeharto must strip off his position.

Reformation has embraced many alterations on society live. Reformation is like fresh wind although the realization must drop victim. Yet, that is value which must be paid for a change. Like the change in Germany, Italia, Uganda, Cuba, and others tyrant nation which also want victim.

Now, let’s analyze how the development of democracy which become reformation expectation. Is it stagnant, shift, or has moved?

The development of democracy can be observed from some aspects. First, it is multiparty. Why political party is positioned first number to observe democracy? The answer is because of multiparty all of society aspiration can be covered well. Indonesia first election after reformation, 2004, the number of party joined is 24. It is big alteration from before that is only 3 parties. Most urgent, multiparty is the good system to avoid domination like New Orde Era.
Second sign is direct election. Direct election is smart achievement for reformation because the aspiration sphere of society more open. Society right not only is covered collectively but also individually.

Third, it is press freedom. On democracy, press has significant role. Press is society aspiration tool. By means of press, society aspiration will be heard, and the most urgent government deceit can be corrected. Press has function as shock therapist for politician and government. It has heavy threat − reader.

Fourth, it is the development of Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). In reformation area, we feel NGOs’ spirit. They implement roles back. Aspirate society aspiration is the movement they done mostly. For example is the action with labor, farmer, fisherman, women, and others society requiring. It is urgent sign for democracy development.

Fifth, it is the risen of democratization programs. Recently, there are two national programs especially concerning on democratization − democracy school provided by Eep Syaifulloh and Ignas Kleden. One of programs is intensify correlation of democracy actors − government (and party), civil society (include NGO), businessman, and press. The programs give good effect for democracy development. Inclusive communication and good relationship will be real there.