On February 19th, the Kemah Daud Christian Church in Bandar Lampung, Indonesia was disbanded during their worship service by local authorities and residents. This forced closure of the church is contrary to Indonesian President Jokowi’s recent appeal and undermines the Indonesian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of worship and religion for all. The Bandar Lampung City Government did eventually move to resolve the issue, and granted the church a worship permit for the next two years while their building permit is being processed by the local government. However, the head of the neighborhood council in Bandar Lampung, Warwan Kurniawan, was arrested on March 15th as the lead suspect in the case. He was charged with Article 156 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, which prohibits obstructing a public religious meeting with violence or threats.
This incident highlights the ongoing persecution of Christians in Indonesia, where Christian minority groups face discrimination, harassment, and violence. Although the country’s constitution guarantees religious freedom, radical Islamist groups have been increasing their influence through a range of violent and non-violent means. According to the Open Doors World Watch List 2021, Indonesia ranks 45th on the list of countries where Christians face the most severe persecution.
Despite these challenges, Christians across the country remain steadfast in their faith and continue to worship and practice their religion. In response to these incidents, organizations like International Christian Concern (ICC) work to raise awareness and advocate on behalf of persecuted Christians in Indonesia and around the world. Through prayer, support, and advocacy, these organizations hope to see religious freedom and tolerance established for all people, regardless of their faith or background.
