Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia at Summit for Democracy Day 2 (Held Online), 10 December 2021
Your Excellency President Biden,
Your Excellencies, Leaders of friendly countries,
Indonesia’s participation at the Summit for Democracy is a reflection of our commitment to strengthening democracy. After a long journey, the Indonesian people have chosen the path of democracy in the life of the people and the state. There is no point of return for democracy in Indonesia. Our work for democracy will continue.
I am a leader who believes that democracy remains the best option to run a government. That belief is also shared by the people of Indonesia. During the 2019 general election, for example, voter turnout reached 81 percent. It is one of the highest in the world. Voter turnout increased from 75 percent during the previous election. Meanwhile, the regional elections held simultaneously in 269 regions during the pandemic recorded a voter turnout of 76 percent.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
Democracy is not the final destination. Democracy is a means to an end. Eventually, democracy must bring welfare and prosperity to the people. We must work hard and ensure that democracy delivers.
For the past two decades, democracy has made a big impact on the welfare of Indonesian people. Poverty has decreased for the past two decades, from 19 percent to 9 percent before the pandemic. Human Development Index has continued to rise, hitting the high category for the first time in 2019. Per capita income has grown by 400 percent, from US$780 to US$4,100.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
We should all be consistent. Democracy must go beyond our borders. Democracy must also be in line with international relations. We must be true to ourselves. Are global regulations, “norm setting” implemented in the same way of democracy among different countries? Undemocratic global financial system, for example, makes resolutions to various global challenges not effective and not inclusive.
Therefore, it is my hope that this summit can also become a reminder for us to promote democracy at a global level to avoid the “mighty takes all”. Let us continue to establish cooperation to strengthen democracy both in our own homeland and other countries in the world.
I thank you.
(DH/EP)