Indonesia’s Election About Political Identity, Says IISS’s Connelly

The video discusses the political landscape in Indonesia, focusing on the 2014 and recent elections. It highlights the contrasting political directions of candidates Prabowo and Jokowi, with Prabowo leaning towards authoritarianism and Jokowi towards democracy. The role of Islamic conservatives in shaping political identity is examined, noting Jokowi's strategic alliances. The video also explores the implications of holding legislative and presidential elections simultaneously for the first time, questioning the future of political cohesion. Finally, it addresses the challenges of uniting a divided nation and the potential for grassroots unrest, despite elite-level reconciliation.

What are the differing political directions represented by Prabowo and Jokowi in the 2014 elections?

How has Jokowi attempted to appeal to Islamic conservatives during his campaign?

What challenges does Indonesia face as it leans more to the right politically?

In what ways might the simultaneous legislative and presidential elections impact Indonesian politics?

What concerns do civil society activists have regarding the political elite's ability to manage grassroots sentiments?