Indonesia

On January 24, 2019, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, formerly known by his nickname Ahok and now as “BTP,” was released from prison. What happens to him will tell us much about Indonesia’s political future.

A seemingly small incident in Indonesia is the first shot in the use of religion, specifically accusations of blasphemy, as a political weapon against President Jokowi in the ongoing presidential race.

Last weekend’s seven bombings in Surabaya reveal a marked escalation of ISIS capabilities in Indonesia and also show changes in tactics. This is probably only the first wave of awaited attacks by ISIS returnees from the Middle East. Nevertheless, the terrorism threat in the country remains small.

Although Burns and Novick don’t besmirch veterans as flagrantly, their misrepresentation of the war and its warriors has reopened old wounds. It’s not just Vietnam veterans’ reputations at stake; how we view this war shapes how we view ourselves as Americans.

Indonesian President Jokowi should make clearer that while the Indonesian Ulama Council’s (MUI) has every right to issue its opinions, it does not speak for the government nor make laws for this diverse and multi-religious country.

In an unexpected move, Indonesia’s Constitutional Court unanimously agrees on an action that provides a major advance in religious freedom.

Basuki Tjahaja Purnama’s (Ahok) case in Indonesia amply illustrates the dangers of blasphemy accusations, and not only to those accused.