Dealing With Radical Islamic Movements and Their Militias: The Policies of Peaceful Cultural Coexistence in Surakarta During 2014–2024

Abstract

This study aims to depict the policies of peaceful cultural coexistence implemented by the Surakarta city government over the past decade. The research addresses two main questions: (1) What regulations have been formulated by the Surakarta city government to promote cultural coexistence? (2) How has the city government enforced the regulations to ensure cultural coexistence within Surakarta society? Data were collected by examining primary and secondary sources and analyzed using the cultural coexistence theory developed by Fredrik Barth, which identifies three main elements forming peaceful cultural coexistence: adaptability, pluralism, and equity, or the fair fulfillment of basic rights. The findings show that the Surakarta city government has attempted to establish fair and inclusive regulations. However, a significant shortcoming lies in the enforcement of these regulations, particularly against radical Islamic groups that refuse to adapt and respect pluralism.  Consequently, it is essential to encourage government authorities to adopt a more assertive law-enforcement approach, ensuring that all individuals learn together, adhere to regulations, and respect differences among the various groups in society