Analysis of the Article: Religious Intolerance and Violence in Indonesia
This article details a concerning pattern of violence against religious minorities in Indonesia, specifically focusing on recent incidents in Padang (West Sumatra) and Sukabumi (West Java). It argues that these attacks aren’t isolated “misunderstandings” but are symptoms of a systemic problem rooted in discriminatory regulations and a lack of robust protection for religious freedom.Hear’s a breakdown of the key points:
1.The Incidents:
Padang Attack: A mob vandalized a religious education facility, causing physical and psychological trauma to children.
Sukabumi Attack: A Christian youth retreat was violently disrupted by a mob.
Commonality: Both attacks involved destruction, intimidation, and targeted religious minorities.2. The Root Cause: The 2006 Joint Ministerial Decree:
Onerous Requirements: The decree makes it incredibly arduous for religious minorities to legally establish houses of worship. It requires signatures from a majority of different faiths and approval from local authorities,which is frequently enough impractical to obtain in intolerant areas.
Discriminatory Impact: The decree effectively empowers the majority religion to veto the rights of minorities.
Creates Vulnerability: Forces minorities to worship in private homes or makeshift venues, making them targets for accusations of illegal gatherings.
3. Government Response & Criticism:
Initial Response: The current Religious Affairs Minister, Nasaruddin, calls the Padang attack a “misunderstanding” and expresses concern for the country’s image.
Insufficient Action: The article criticizes this response as inadequate,arguing that “hope and regret are no longer sufficient.”
Broken Promises: Nasaruddin’s predecessor promised to revise the 2006 decree but failed to do so.
Call for Action: The article urges the government to dismantle discriminatory regulations, prosecute perpetrators, and ensure religious freedom for all.
4. The Need for Leadership:
Presidential Role: The article emphasizes the importance of a clear and unwavering stance from President Prabowo Subianto in defending religious freedom. Silence is seen as reinforcing the problem.
Law Enforcement: Calls for justice and prosecution of those responsible for the violence.
overall Argument:
The article presents a strong argument that the violence against religious minorities in Indonesia is not random, but a direct consequence of systemic discrimination and a failure to uphold constitutional guarantees of religious freedom. It’s a plea for concrete action – dismantling the problematic 2006 decree, enforcing the law, and demonstrating strong leadership – to protect the rights of all citizens.
Key Themes:
Religious Intolerance: The pervasive issue of discrimination against religious minorities. Systemic Discrimination: The role of laws and regulations in perpetuating inequality.
The Importance of Religious Freedom: The basic right to worship without fear of violence or persecution.
Government Responsibility: The obligation of the government to protect the rights of all citizens.
This article serves as a critical commentary on the state of religious freedom in Indonesia and a call for urgent reform.
