Affirming Religious Moderation as a State Doctrine: a Study of Government Regulations, Programs, and Implementation Challenges.

Abstract

Religious moderation plays a pivotal role in sustaining social harmony and ensuring an inclusive and equitable society. This study examines the relationship between religious moderation and the political–legal system shaping its implementation, with a specific focus on Islamic educational institutions. Employing a qualitative approach that integrates literature review and field observations, this research aims to identify the challenges and opportunities associated with embedding religious moderation within the education system from political and legal perspectives. Findings reveal that, despite multiple initiatives to promote religious moderation, several barriers persist, including resistance from certain ideological groups, inadequate legal frameworks, and inconsistent curriculum integration. Moreover, the absence of structured policies and limited government interventions further hinder the effective implementation of moderation principles. Therefore, comprehensive strategies are required, involving stronger political commitment, the establishment of binding legal regulations, and systematic incorporation of moderation principles into educational curricula. Strengthening religious moderation through structured policies and legal mechanisms can institutionalize it as a fundamental component of national education, fostering tolerance and coexistence within Indonesia’s diverse society. This study emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach in addressing the political and legal dimensions of religious moderation to ensure its long-term sustainability.