In Indonesia, religious minorities, including Christians, face significant discrimination due to laws like the 1965 blasphemy law, the 2022 criminal code, and the 2006 religious harmony regulation, which are often used to favor Islam. These laws empower religious majorities to block minority religious activities and prevent them from building houses of worship. Smaller groups like Ahmadiyah, Bahá’í, and Indigenous faiths face harsher treatment. Authorities frequently fail to stop attacks on minorities by Islamic groups. In January 2025, a new category called “kepercayaan” (belief) was added to identity cards, which is seen as a step toward greater religious recognition. However, religious minorities fear that this new designation will be used to identify and target them, particularly Christians, leading to increased harassment and discrimination.
- Sovereign LORD, we pray for peace and unity among the diverse faiths in Indonesia. We pray that Your Love breaks down the walls of division and hatred (The Holy Bible, Matthew 5:9).
- Father GOD, cover Your people with Your Glory, a shield of protection and strength amid trials and adversity. Let them experience and enjoy Your Presence and Peace (The Holy Bible, Isaiah 4:5).
- LORD, we pray for more religious tolerance in Indonesia. We pray for the authorities to take action to protect religious minorities from attacks (The Holy Bible, Psalm 82:3).
News Source: Human Rights Watch
