Introduction Although six religions are officially recognized in Indonesia, there are hundreds of religions and beliefs in across the country. Some of these are local or mystical beliefs, but there are also other religious groups like Gafatar, Shia and Ahmadiyya Muslims. Intolerance towards these minority groups is on the rise. According to research by Setara Institute, in 2016 there were ... Read More »

PREFACE One of SETARA Institute’s organizational mandates is to promote, maintain and strengthen the diversity of Indonesia. Since 2007, this organization has been consistent in compiling reports on the conditions of freedom of religion/ belief in Indonesia. Ths consistency is not only evident on the Institute’s strategic methods to present knowledge and the latest data updates each year, but also ... Read More »

Poor record: Setara Institute researchers Achmad Fanani (left) and Bonar Tigor Naipospos present a study on Indonesia’s human rights index during a press conference in Jakarta on Monday. Their research suggests Indonesia is experiencing a decline in the religious freedom and freedom of speech categories.(JP/Wendra Ajistyatama) The state of freedom in the country has fallen to a new low with ... Read More »

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Bonar Tigor Naipospos, Deputy Chairman of Indonesian think tank Setara Institute, asserted that President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo had committed human rights violation in relation to the alleged religious blasphemy committed by non-active Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama. Bonar stated that in human rights perspective, a country – represented by its government – has the obligation to protect ... Read More »

Cases of religious intolerance could increase in Indonesia amid Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama’s blasphemy trial and ahead of Christmas celebrations. Setara Institute research director Ismail Hasani said intolerant groups had grown more confident after a large-scale rally against Ahok in the National Monument (Monas) area, Central Jakarta, on Dec. 2. “And it’s now heading toward Christmas,” Ismail told ... Read More »