How have the Philippines and Indonesia become more democratic in recent decades?
(1 point)
Responses
The military led coups to seize power.
The military led coups to seize power.
Dictators imposed new constitutions.
Dictators imposed new constitutions.
Civil wars divided the countries between governments.
Civil wars divided the countries between governments.
Popular movements demanded and won elected governments.
Popular movements demanded and won elected governments.
In recent decades, the Philippines and Indonesia have become more democratic through popular movements demanding and winning elected governments.
The correct answer is: Popular movements demanded and won elected governments.
To understand how the Philippines and Indonesia became more democratic in recent decades, we need to look at the historical context and key events that shaped their political systems.
1. People Power Revolution in the Philippines: In 1986, the Philippines witnessed a significant political shift through the peaceful People Power Revolution. Large-scale mass protests and civil disobedience led by various groups, including church leaders, students, and opposition politicians, demanded the end of Ferdinand Marcos' authoritarian rule. The movement resulted in the ousting of Marcos and the installation of a democratic government led by Corazon Aquino. This paved the way for a more democratic system in the Philippines.
2. Democratization in Indonesia: After decades of autocratic rule under President Suharto, Indonesia experienced a significant democratic transition in the late 1990s. Economic crises, political unrest, and mass protests against corruption pushed for change. In 1998, Suharto stepped down from power, leading to a period of political reform and the establishment of democratic institutions. Indonesia held its first free and fair elections in 1999, marking a major step towards democracy.
In both cases, the key factor in the countries' democratic transitions was the active participation and demands of the people through popular movements. These movements advocated for democratic principles, such as free and fair elections, respect for civil liberties, and greater government accountability. The democratic changes were achieved through peaceful means, without military coups or civil wars.
It is important to note that while the Philippines and Indonesia have made significant progress towards democracy, challenges and obstacles remain in both countries. However, the active involvement of citizens continues to play a crucial role in shaping the democratic processes and institutions in these nations.