The Merdeka Belajar program promotes freedom and autonomy in education, which are necessary for developing critical and reflective thinking to participate
actively in democratic processes. Moreover, independent learning programs can help close educational disparities and enable students to learn according to their
needs and interests. This article examines the concept of an independent curriculum within the context of democratization and its associated benefits.
Keywords: Independent curriculum, education, democratization, freedom, autonomy, critical thinking skills, educational gaps, active participation.