BUILDING A DEMOCRATIC CIVILIZATION THROUGH ETHICS AND ELECTION INTEGRITY

Authors

  • Yudaningsih

Abstract

Indonesian democracy is the result of the people’s long struggle to up- hold political rights, not a sudden gift. Post-reform 1998, direct elections (pemilu) became a crucial milestone in the circulation of power. However, democracy often becomes trapped in procedural dimensions, neglecting its moral substance. The phenomena of money politics, identity polariza- tion, and the flow of disinformation in the digital space demonstrate the fragility of democratic foundations when political ethics are ignored. In this context, political ethics and electoral integrity are key prerequisites for building a dignified democratic civilization. Elections with integrity not only guarantee the legitimacy of government through honesty, transparen- cy, and accountability but also strengthen public trust. Meanwhile, political ethics serve as a moral guideline that prevents democracy from becoming trapped in transactional and manipulative practices. The synergy between ethics and electoral integrity can give birth to a substantive democracy that is civilized, just, and sustainable. This paper examines the role of ethics in strengthening democratic civilization and the importance of elections with integrity through a normative approach, literature review, and comparative analysis, to provide critical reflection on the future direction of Indonesian democracy.

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Published

31-12-2025

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 1 (2025): Jurnal Etika dan Pemilu

Section

Articles

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