The Game Was Rigged From The Start
Indonesia has been dealing with the issue of corruption for decades. With a history of corrupt leaders and officials, it is no surprise that corruption has become ingrained in the country’s political and economic systems. According to Transparency International’s 2020 Corruption Perceptions Index, Indonesia ranks 102nd out of 180 countries, indicating a high level of corruption in the country. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the reasons behind corruption in Indonesia and what can be done to address this critical issue.
The Historical Roots of Corruption in Indonesia
Indonesia has a long history of political and corporate corruption. In the early 1960s, President Sukarno was accused of corruption, and his successor, Suharto, was notorious for his corrupt practices during his 32-year regime. Suharto’s New Order government allowed corruption to flourish, with crony capitalism being the norm. The country’s state-owned enterprises were used as personal piggy banks for the elites. The corruption continued even during the reformasi period following Suharto’s downfall. The country’s political and economic systems were too entrenched in corruption to bring about any real changes.
The Impact of Corruption on the Economy
The impact of corruption on the Indonesian economy has been significant. According to a report by Indonesia Corruption Watch, corruption has cost the country IDR 1,500 trillion ($102 billion) since its independence. The World Bank estimates that corruption raises the cost of doing business in Indonesia by 20%, making it difficult for small businesses to compete. Corruption also reduces foreign investment, as investors are hesitant to invest in a corrupt environment. The money lost to corruption could have been used to build much-needed infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and hospitals, and to improve the lives of the Indonesian people.
Why Corruption Still Persists in Indonesia
Despite the efforts of the government and civil society organizations, corruption still persists in Indonesia. One of the main reasons is the lack of political will to address the issue. Corruption has become so embedded in the country’s political and economic systems that it is difficult to root out. Bureaucracy and red tape also contribute to corruption, as officials use their powers to extract bribes from individuals and businesses. The lack of transparency in government processes also makes it easy for corruption to remain hidden.
What Can Be Done to Address Corruption in Indonesia?
Addressing corruption in Indonesia requires a concerted effort by the government and civil society organizations. The following are some recommendations:
- Strengthen anti-corruption laws: The government should strengthen anti-corruption laws and ensure that they are enforced effectively. Those found guilty of corruption should be punished severely to deter others from engaging in corrupt practices.
- Increase transparency: The government should increase transparency in all government processes, including procurement, licensing, and contracting.
- Empower civil society organizations: Civil society organizations play a crucial role in fighting corruption. The government should provide them with the necessary resources and support to carry out their work effectively.
- Increase public awareness: The public should be educated about the negative impact of corruption on the country and encouraged to report any corrupt practices they come across.
Conclusion
Corruption has been a significant problem in Indonesia for decades. It has cost the country billions of dollars and prevented it from reaching its full potential. Addressing corruption requires a concerted effort by the government and civil society organizations. By strengthening anti-corruption laws, increasing transparency, empowering civil society organizations, and increasing public awareness, we can begin to tackle this critical issue and create a better future for Indonesia.
