DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE

Anton Sri Probiyantono

Democratic governance is about a process of decision making that places people as the center for
development. It invites the people to understand their rights, perform their respects to the
presence of others, and live with dignity. At the same time, it also shows their responsibilities for
the effects of their efforts and for meditating their differences. It encourages a freedom from
discrimination based on race, ethnicity, class, gender or any other attributes, a freedom from
threats of violence, freedom to speak and freedom to lead their lives and future generation.

In term of state-management/ administration context, constituents and government institutions are

the key actors involved in such process facilitated by a certain council (legislative system)
established based on a consensus achieved by related actors. The success in implementing the
democratic governance depends on the effectiveness of the practices and well-functioning other
related institutions (such as independent judiciary, political parties, electoral systems, accessible
media, and civil society) in solving development problems and addressing development
challenges. However, there are challenges in implementing democratic governance, i.e.
corruption, ineffective democratic institutions that neglect participation and accountability, and
the apathy of constituents as the effects of their frustration due to the elites’ dishonesty.

Democratic governance is required to be established meant to encourage the development of

institutions and processes that are more responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens, including the
poor and minorities. It should exist to strengthen electoral and legislative systems, improve access
to justice and public administration and develop a greater capacity to deliver basic services to
those most in need. Both human development and democratic governance include strong
components of participation and choice.

antsprobi@yahoo.com