Will religion influence voters’ choices in the Jakarta election?
Analysis, Elections, Politics, ReligionFollowing the massive rallies against Jakarta Governor Basuki “Ahok” Tjahaja Purnama over alleged blasphemy, one might assume that religion was the most important factor influencing the intended voting behaviour of Jakarta residents. But a study conducted by Nathanael Gratias Sumaktoyo demonstrates that it is not as dominant as the recent rallies suggest.
Talking Indonesia: Ahok, race, religion & democracy (part 2)
Politics, Religion, Talking IndonesiaHow much is the controversy around Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama related to his ethnicity and religion and how much is it about popular politics in Indonesia today? How has Ahok’s own political style played a part? Dr Jemma Purdey discusses these issues and more with Professor Ariel Heryanto in the latest Talking Indonesia podcast.
Hoaxes and fake news: a cancer on Indonesian democracy
Analysis, Media, PoliticsFake news and hoaxes are now a ubiquitous part of the public conversation online in Indonesia. Dr Airlangga Pribadi Kusman writes that when political engagement is based on lies or manipulated data, public participation in the political process may end up harming, rather than strengthening, democracy.
Talking Indonesia: political dynasties
Politics, Talking IndonesiaWhat role do political dynasties play in Indonesian politics? What motivates political families to attempt to establish themselves as dynasties, and how do they do so? Dr Dave McRae discusses these issues and more with Dr Jemma Purdey, in the first Talking Indonesia podcast for 2017.
Indonesia at Melbourne: 2016 in review
Elections, Foreign Policy, Human Rights, Law, Politics, Public health, Religion, ReviewIn our final post for 2016, we send off this rather depressing year by taking a look back at some of the expert commentary and analysis published on Indonesia at Melbourne. Thanks again for your loyal readership and support, and we look forward to seeing you again in mid-January.
George Junus Aditjondro: an uncompromising activist
Politics, SocietyOn 10 December, Indonesia lost one of its most passionate, outspoken and committed public intellectuals and activists: George Junus Aditjondro. Professor Ariel Heryanto reflects on the rich and colourful life of his friend and colleague, who died in Palu, Central Sulawesi, at the age of 70.
Bukan sekedar Ahok: menjelaskan aksi massa pada 2 Desember
Analysis, Politics, ReligionApakah signifikansi "Aksi Bela Islam III" secara politik dan agama? Apakah besarnya demonstrasi tersebut adalah bukti lebih lanjut tentang penguatan konservatisme Islam di Indonesia? Associate Professor Greg Fealy menyajikan analisa mendalam tentang demo 2 Desember dan konsekuensinya bagi demokrasi Indonesia.
Mobocracy? Counting the cost of the rallies to 'defend Islam'
Analysis, Politics, ReligionPolice Chief Tito Karnavian has said that about AU$7.65 million was spent on security for the rallies to "defend Islam" on 4 November and 2 December. But as Ihsan Ali-Fauzi writes, these material costs are only part of the picture. Of far greater significance is that the protests have eroded the foundations of democracy and undermined the influence of "moderate" Muslim leaders.
Bigger than Ahok: explaining the 2 December mass rally
Analysis, Politics, ReligionWhat is the political and religious significance of the massive protest to "defend Islam" in Central Jakarta on 2 December? Does the huge turnout indicate a hardening of mainstream Muslim attitudes in Indonesia? Associate Professor Greg Fealy presents a comprehensive analysis of the events of 2 December and their consequences for Indonesian democracy.