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The Interplay Between U.S. Foreign Policy and Political Islam in Indonesia |
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A sense of shared experience and religious solidarity unite Muslims in
Indonesia with their brethren living in the historic core of the Middle
East. Yet the world’s largest Muslim nation – and third-largest
democracy – remains distinct, the product of a unique Islamic identity
shaped by centuries of interactions with different cultures and faiths.
While some Indonesians hold radical and anti-American sentiments,
others admire the United States and share the same values of freedom,
multiculturalism, and democracy.
M. Syafi’i Anwar, Ford Foundation Visiting Fellow and Executive
Director of the International Center for Islam and Pluralism in Jakarta
analyzed “the interplay between U.S. Foreign Policy and political Islam
in Indonesia”. Mr. Anwar emphasized how limited radical Islam is in
Indonesia compared to the large, moderate movements like NU and
Muhammadiya. He also mentioned that most Indonesians are in favor of a
state based on Pancasila (5 Pillars) philosophy, not shari’a,
while pointing out that levels of piety within citizens have
significantly increased. Moreover; Mr. Anwar motioned that U.S. policy
should not lead us to be complacent and suggested that both Americans
and Indonesians should work together towards a better communication and
better understanding.
For further information and a transcript of the discussion please see http://www.brookings.edu/events/2007/0918islamicworld.aspx
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