2023 ST Lee Lecture - Can democracy deliver? Reflections on the Indonesian case

Many observers are warning that democracy is in retreat around the globe. One reason for this trend is that non-democratic models of development are attracting a growing number of adherents. From the perspective of these adherents, complex democratic processes hinder the implementation of policies and ultimately result in a failure to deliver benefits to the people. In contrast, so the argument goes, less democratic forms of governance, with fewer political constraints, can facilitate a faster and more effective policymaking process, and thus be more successful in bringing benefits to the people. Both historically and in contemporary times, this kind of narrative has enjoyed political support in our region, and in Indonesia too.

In this lecture, Dr Baswedan challenges the notion that less democratic government is better at achieving developmental success, and explains why he believes that democracy can deliver. Drawing on his experience in public policy, particularly as the Governor of Jakarta, Dr Baswedan will share his perspective on how democracy can effectively function to deliver progress and development for the people. 

About the speaker:

Dr Anies Rasyid Baswedan served as the Governor of Jakarta from 2017-2022. He is also the Founder of Indonesia Mengajar, Chairman of the Indonesian Governors Association, and the Vice Chairman of the steering committee of C-40 where he is in the leadership along with the Mayor of London and the Governor of Tokyo. He was also the Co-Chair of the Urban-20 Forum as part of Indonesia's G20 Presidency in 2022.

Before assuming office as governor, Dr Baswedan served as the Minister of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia (2014-2016). For the period of 2007-2014, he was the rector of Paramadina University, a leading private university in Jakarta. He was Indonesia's youngest university rector when elected in 2007.

Dr Baswedan attained a PhD in Political Science from Northern Illinois University, an MA in Public Management from the School of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, and a BA in Economics from Gadjah Mada University. During his studies, he was granted numerous scholastic awards including Fulbright Scholarship, William P Cole Scholarship, Gerald Maryanov Fellowship, and JAL Scholarship.

About the ST Lee Lecture on Asia and the Pacific: 

The ST Lee Lecture series was established following an endowment from Dr Seng Tee Lee (ST Lee) of the Lee Foundation in Singapore. It supports an annual lecture that provides the opportunity for a distinguished figure from the Asia Pacific to speak on developments or trends in the region.

This is an in-person only event, 5.30pm reception for 6-7pm lecture.

Registration is essential as seating is strictly limited.