Religious Moderation : A Critical Perspective on Populist Narratives and Identity-Based Conflicts in Indonesia

This study examines the phenomenon of religious populism and identity-based religious conflict, which frequently undermines social cohesion and national integration in Indonesia. Applying Norman Fairclough’s Critical Discourse Analysis, the research explores how narratives of religious moderation are constructed within public discourse as a response to the dynamics of populism and identity tensions. Drawing from various textual sources including media narratives, political speeches, and policy documents the analysis reveals that religious populism contributes to identity polarization, whereas religious moderation emerges as a counter-narrative aimed at fostering social cohesion and promoting inclusive development. The findings highlight a duality in the discourse: on one hand, religious moderation serves as a strategy for unity and social inclusiveness; on the other hand, resistance from certain groups toward mainstreaming moderate values persists. These insights affirm that religious moderation is not mere rhetoric, but a strategic necessity for inclusive nation-building that can mitigate identity conflicts and enhance social tolerance. As such, strengthening the discourse on religious moderation within both social and policy spheres is imperative for achieving harmony in Indonesia’s pluralistic society. This study also offers policy recommendations for the government to reinforce religious moderation amid the challenges posed by religious populism.

کلیدواژه ها:

religious moderation ، inclusive development ، religious populism ، identity conflicts ، critical discourse analysis