Indonesia: Protect Religious Minorities!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last year, there were more than 250 attacks on religious minorities in Indonesia. But instead of taking action to stop the violence, government policies increase their likelihood and don’t even provide support for the victims.

Demand Indonesia reform the law to protect religious minorities.

Blasphemy laws in Indonesia only recognize six religions, and national worship center laws give more influence and power to majority religions. Officials often reject permits to build worship centers for minority religions and harass those who stand up for their rights.
Meanwhile, the attacks against minorities have grown more hostile and criminals are rarely – if ever – punished.

Freedom of religion is a fundamental right.

The Indonesian government, in particular the President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, isn’t doing what it should to protect religious minorities from discrimination and attacks. The President should respond in a more appropriate manner and implement a zero tolerance policy.

There has been an increase in attacks, with 264 happening just last year in 2012, and the attacks have gotten more hostile. Persons of authority often blame the victims, and most of the criminals don’t receive any kind of punishment. Other officials act as enablers by discriminating themselves.

Blasphemy laws that only recognize 6 religions and worship center laws that give majorities more power worsen the situation as well. The president needs to stand up for religious freedom and make sure that government officials are not contributing to abuses already being committed against these groups.

Tell Indonesia you expect the government to respect the faithful of all religions.

 

Thank you for taking action,

Emily V.
Care2 and ThePetitionSite Team