Why authoritarianism won't fix corruption in Southeast Asia
Deutsche Welle
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto has argued that stronger executive power is necessary to combat corruption, despite critics warning that such measures could lead to selective enforcement and entrench vested interests. His remarks come amid rising public anger over corruption, as seen in recent protests across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and Timor-Leste. While Prabowo's tough stance on corruption has boosted his approval ratings, experts caution that authoritarianism may not be the solution. Singapore is often cited as a model for effective anti-corruption efforts under strong governance, but other authoritarian states like Hong Kong and Brunei have mixed success.
The debate over authoritarianism versus democracy in fighting corruption is particularly relevant in Southeast Asia, where weak law enforcement and unaccountable leadership contribute to widespread graft. Transparency International highlights that meaningful reforms are needed to rebuild public trust and strengthen democratic institutions. Indonesia's recent decline in the Corruption Perceptions Index underscores the challenges of addressing corruption without undermining democratic norms.
The situation in Indonesia reflects broader concerns about the impact of authoritarianism on democracy and human rights. While Singapore's aggressive law enforcement and transparent systems have helped it rank high in anti-corruption indexes, other states may lack the same level of accountability. This raises questions about whether strongman governance can truly eradicate corruption or if it risks stifling democratic progress.
Ultimately, the fight against corruption requires more than just tough rhetoric or stronger executive power. It demands透明, inclusive reforms that address systemic issues and protect human rights. The lessons from Southeast Asia and Singapore highlight the delicate balance between strong governance and democratic principles in achieving lasting anti-corruption success.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/23/2026