Civil Military Relations. The Role of ABRI in Indonesian Socio-Political Life

摘要

The argument in this thesis is the Armed Forces of the Republic of Indonesia(ABRI) has a legitimate role in socio-political affairs and political life as well as roles in the defense and security of Indonesia. This dual function of ABRI allows ABRI officers to be actively involved in the decision making process of the country. During the New Order Era, many ABRI officers were assigned to key positions of the government; state ministers, governors, district heads, and other high ranking officials at both the central administration and the regional level. Excessive implementation of ABRI's dual function has resulted in many criticisms. The end of Cold War and the end of the East-West rivalry has brought the beginnings of a new world order. The issues of democratization, human rights, environment, and openness are common throughout the world, including Indonesia. These global issues have increased the wave of criticism toward ABRI involvement in political life of Indonesia. In addition, the success of government's development programs has resulted in a more informed and conscious society which has begun to question the relevance of ABRI's involvement in socio-political affairs. This thesis describes some aspects of ABRI's dual functions, its future prospects, and some proposed actions necessary for future implementation of ABRI's dual function.