The politics of Indonesia

About this book

The Politics of Indonesia is an engaging and accessible account of this country's main political issues, themes, and institutions. Beginning with a discussion of traditional cultural and political influences, it traces Indonesia's political development through the colonial era and into the period of Indonesia's emergence as an independent state. Charting the rise and fall of President Suharto, the book also provides an overview of a number of contentious issues, such as the political role of the armed forces, corruption, compromised judicial independence, human rights, economic development and crisis, and national unity. It concludes by considering the main political influences at work in Indonesia at the close of the Suharto period, and the prospects for democratic reform. It also provides a useful guide to further reading. This book is a valuable and fascinating resource for students of Asian studies and related disciplines, those who travel and do business in Indonesia, and, indeed, anyone living in the strategic shadow of this important and culturally diverse nation.