Studies in Indonesian Contemporary Religiosity and Modern World
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): Studies in Indonesian Contemporary Religiosity and Modern World, April 2025

Religious Pluralism and National Identity in Contemporary Indonesia

Intan Anggraini (Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar)
Nurul Hana (Monash University Malaysia)
Hany Fawzy (Ain Shams University)
Kgosi Mabena (Nelson Mandela University)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Apr 2025

Abstract

Indonesia’s status as one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world presents unique challenges and opportunities for the formation of national identity. This paper explores how religious pluralism shapes Indonesia’s modern national identity, focusing on the tension between state-imposed unity and religious diversity. It critically examines the role of Pancasila, Indonesia’s state ideology, in fostering interfaith cooperation, and the ways in which religious communities navigate the complexities of modernity, politics, and social cohesion. Through an analysis of recent policy changes, interfaith dialogue initiatives, and grassroots movements, this paper contributes to the understanding of how religious pluralism impacts social harmony and national unity in Indonesia. The research highlights how various faith groups, including Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and indigenous beliefs, engage with national discourse and politics, often attempting to balance religious expression with state-imposed secularism. The paper also discusses the rise of religious nationalism, exploring its implications for Indonesia's religious diversity and democratic values. This work contributes to the broader field of religious studies by addressing the intersection of religion, politics, and national identity in one of the world’s most complex multicultural societies.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

religion

Publisher

Subject

Description

Studies in Indonesian Contemporary Religiosity and the Modern World (ISSN: 3163-379X) is an international peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of religion, society, culture, and modernity in contemporary Indonesia. The journal serves as a scholarly platform for the ...