Diocesan Resources
Religious Liberty Attacked in Indonesia (2013)
Religious Liberty Attacked in Indonesia - The Plight of Religious Minorities: Struggling to Survive in Indonesia
Indonesia’s constitution, laws, and policies establish freedom of religion, but some courts and law enforcement officials fail to protect religious minorities and prosecute violators, fostering impunity that continues to be a significant hindrance to religious freedom and human rights.
Indonesia has a population of about 237 million, almost 88% of which is Muslim. A large number of religiously based acts of violence are perpetrated by non-mainstream Muslims. Most Indonesians practice a very moderate and tolerant expression of Islam, but more militant groups have become increasingly active in recent years. These extremists groups tend to be the source of aggravated attacks directed at other Muslim sects and non-Muslims alike.
Acts of violence against religious minorities have become more alarming since 2011. Religious extremists have coordinated attacks on minority groups, including Christians and both Ahmadi and Shia Muslims at prayer in Java, Sumatra, and other provinces. The U.S. State Department reports that in 2010 alone, about 125 attacks against religious minorities were recorded. This number is estimated to have been even higher in 2011 and 2012.