Academic Community Mobilization Against Authoritarian Populism in the 2024 Election

¹ Communication Science, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
² Business Administration Science, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: yuseptia_angretnowati@upnyk.ac.id

Abstract

This research aims to explore civil society’s response to various electoral political events related to the phenomenon of authoritarianism in the context of the 2024 elections, by linking it to the concept of political hegemony. In this case, electoral authoritarianism is maintained through the effective practice of populism. If this trend continues, the political regime has the potential to establish or maintain its political hegemony. Political hegemony does not occur spontaneously, but rather through the mobilization of electoral discourse narratives that are formed through authoritarian populist rhetoric and narrative construction, which aims to win voter support. This process is supported by a growing political campaign industry. Civil society’s response to authoritarian populism reflects the dynamics of resistance, where civil society plays a role in influencing and shaping public opinion and fighting for democratic values and political alternatives. The study was conducted on campus movements in guarding the 2024 elections. Thus, understanding civil society’s response enriches insight into how political hegemony is built and challenged in an authoritarian political context. This research contributes to expanding understanding of contemporary political dynamics and the role of civil society in confronting authoritarianism and political hegemony.