Civil society material

1. Name : Bevan Pramudito Hendratman
Student Number : 14010120190051
Subject : Civil Society and Democracy
Question:
Based on video WAJAH DEMOKRASI 4.0: MENJAGA RUANG AMAN MEREKA YANG BERSUARA.
First, could academic be seen as part of the civil society to strengthen democracy? If yes, have they
performed as expected? Second, how do you think about the current state of academic freedom in
Indonesia? What are the challenges and opportunities of the Indonesian academic freedom? Third, what
kind of responses that those academics get when protesting state's policy to revise the law on Indonesian
anti-corruption body? Why can it be considered as cyber terror?
Answer:
Yes, academics can be seen as an important part of civil society that can play a role in strengthening
democracy. They have knowledge and expertise in academia that can be used to analyze, understand,
and provide in-depth insights on political, social, and economic issues related to democracy.
The performance of academics in strengthening democracy can vary depending on the individual and
the context. Several academics play an active role in evaluating critical thinking, research, and analysis
that contribute to discussion and public opinion on democracy issues. They can also be effective
monitors of government policies and public institutions. However, there are also some academics who
may be influenced by political factors or certain external pressures, so that their performance does not
always meet expectations.
My opinion on the current provisions for academic freedom in Indonesia is based on information up to
September 2021, so recent changes may not have been covered. Indonesia has a strong academic
tradition and several quality universities, but there are challenges to academic freedom.
One of the main challenges is the existence of limitations and pressure on academic freedom which can
affect the independence of academics in hiding, analyzing and conveying their research results.
Sometimes, there are legal or policy constraints that can limit free expression or punish the government.
In addition, political or social pressure can also affect intellectual freedom. However, there are also
opportunities for academic freedom in Indonesia. Civil society, including academics, has an important
role in fighting for and maintaining academic freedom. Student organizations, non-governmental
organizations and public advocacy can play important roles in supporting academic freedom and
protecting the rights of academics.
The responses of academics to the state policy to revise the Corruption Eradication Commission Law
(UU KPK) may vary. Some academics may protest the revision because they see it as a step that can
reduce the independence and effectiveness of the KPK in eradicating corruption. They may use their
academic knowledge and authority to overwhelm them through speeches, speeches, or peaceful
demonstrations. The use of the term "cyber terror" may have more to do with certain contexts in which
protests or criticism from academics via social media or online platforms face attacks or detention by
certain groups or individuals. Such attacks may take the form of cyberattacks, online vandalism, or the
dissemination of false information to slander and damage the reputation of academics.
It should be noted, however, that judging an act as "cyber terror" depends on the context and the specific
incident that occurred. It is important to ensure that criticism and protests are conducted peacefully and
in accordance with applicable laws.