Public Relations of UPNVJ – Dozens of Political Science students from various universities throughout Indonesia participated in a public discussion entitled “Reaffirming Pancasila Democracy in Indonesia” with the Chairman of the Legislative Body (Baleg) of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Dr. Bob Hasan, SH, MH. This discussion was part of the 9th National Evaluation Meeting (Ravelnas) organized by Himapolindo (Indonesian Political Science Student Association) of the Garuda Progresif Cabinet at the Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Auditorium, UPN “Veteran” Jakarta Rectorate Building, on Friday, October 10, 2025.

Pancasila Democracy: Foundations, Challenges, and Reactualization

In his presentation, Bob Hasan emphasized that Pancasila Democracy is an ideological and systemic consequence that underpins national and state life in Indonesia. He stated that social unrest, criticism, and student protests are legitimate forms of political awareness as long as they are based on Pancasila values.

"Pancasila democracy is a consequence of what we have been using and adhering to. Our concerns and awareness need to be rationalized through criticism, protest, and action. This is inseparable from our characteristics and culture, namely Pancasila. We must not let the rapid flow of digitalization cause us to unwittingly follow trends that are not part of the Pancasila democracy environment," Bob Hasan emphasized.

He warned that the digital era has a significant impact on how people think and act. The rapid and powerful flow of information can unwittingly sway public opinion away from Pancasila values.

"We need to reaffirm Pancasila Democracy so that it remains the way of life for the Indonesian people, as envisioned by the independence fighters," he added.

Trias Politica and the Indonesian Democratic System

In his discussion, Bob Hasan also addressed the separation of state powers as a key pillar of democracy. He explained that Indonesia's democratic system adheres to the principles of counterparts and checks and balances , as envisioned by Montesquieu in his Trias Politica concept, which divides power into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial, to prevent tyranny and protect individual freedom.

"Democracy is a concrete manifestation of popular sovereignty. In practice, power remains in the hands of the people, and students, as agents of change, play a significant role in maintaining that democratic direction," Bob Hasan told the participants.

He added that, in the Indonesian context, the separation of powers system operates in a balanced manner: the legislative branch plays a role in creating laws, the executive branch implements them, and the judiciary carries out corrective functions. This mechanism, he argued, is clear evidence that Pancasila democracy places the people at the center of power.

Pancasila as the Source of All Sources of Law

Bob Hasan also highlighted the importance of making Pancasila the highest source of law, as stated in Article 2 of Law Number 12 of 2011 concerning the Formation of Legislation.

"Pancasila is not just an ideology, but a metatheory with philosophical depth. It stands above all legal systems and is the source of values in every piece of legislation," he explained.

Furthermore, Bob emphasized that the hierarchy of laws and regulations in Indonesia consists of Pancasila, the 1945 Constitution, and the Constitution. He emphasized that lawmaking must be inseparable from meaningful public participation, involving various stakeholders, academics, and civil society.

"The legislative process must be transparent and accountable. Public participation is not merely a formality, but a source of inspiration in shaping legal norms and substance that favor the people," he said.

Students as Guardians of Democratic Rationality

Closing the discussion session, Bob Hasan emphasized the importance of critical thinking as a rational fortress for students in maintaining the idealism and direction of Pancasila Democracy.

"Critical thinking is a filter for all of us. Without critical thinking, democracy loses its spirit. Students must be guardians of the public conscience and a bulwark against the deviation of national values," he emphasized.

Academic Forum and National Reflection

This discussion provided an intellectual space that brought together political practitioners and academics for an open dialogue about the future of Indonesian democracy. Participants actively asked questions and reflected on the current state of democracy.

Through this forum, Himapol UPNVJ and Himapolindo affirmed their commitment to continue strengthening political literacy and constitutional awareness of the younger generation, so that Pancasila Democracy will not only become a political system, but also a life value inherent in every citizen's actions.