Thinking Outside the Ballot Box: How Indonesian Democracy Can Inform American Electoral Reform

Abstract

This paper employs a political comparative analysis of two of the largest democracies in the world: Indonesia and the United States of America, and examines how the latter can take lessons from the former amid overwhelming calls for electoral reform. It critiques key aspects of the American system that undermine the principles of democracy, such as the Electoral College, ‘faithless electors’, gerrymandering and inconsistent voter identification laws.

In response, this study proposes a reformed model through comparative analysis of Indonesia’s transition from indirect to direct vote, as well as other key players in the success of their democracy, such as proportional representation, open-list systems, efficient election day procedures and a centralized election committee. This study argues that, despite structural differences (such as the entrenched two-party system and unique constitutional considerations), Indonesia offers valuable insight in conversations around American electoral reform.

Although recognizing the downfalls of the American system, this paper does not advocate for a full system uphaul, but rather contributes to ongoing discussions around reform processes by identifying possible transferable practices from a comparable democracy.