The Center for Religious and Cross-cultural Studies (CRCS) and the Indonesian Consortium for Religious Studies (ICRS) are excited to host an enlightening talk show titled “The Future of the Study of Religion in Indonesia: Opportunities and Challenges.” This side event of the 2024 AAS-in-Asia, set to delve into the complexities and rich tapestry of religious practices and studies in Indonesia, will take place on July 8, at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada. This is an informal event, held outdoor in the area of the Graduate School (Jl. Teknika Utara, Pogung), with snacks provided, and enlivened by a performance.
The discussion will be moderated by Prof. Dr. Fatimah Husein, Associate Director of ICRS and a distinguished scholar renowned for her expertise in Islamic studies and interfaith dialogue.
Speakers
Robert Hefner (Boston University), a prominent anthropologist who has done extensive research on religions in Indonesia and Southeast Asia for more than four decades, will provide his assessment and identify patterns in the development of studies of religion in Indonesia.
Greg Fealy (Australian National University), an expert in Indonesian politics and Muslim civil society groups, will discuss trends and challenges in contemporary studies of Muslim politics, the continuities and the changes in the dynamic context of changing political orders.
Lena Larsen (University of Oslo), noted for her research on Sharia, gender equality and freedom of religion or belief, will provide insights into the emerging academic research on the topic and what Indonesia may contribute to the global academic studies of freedom of religion or belief.
Nelly van Doorn-Harder (Wake Forest University), a respected scholar specializing in Christian-Muslim relations and women’s roles in religious communities in Indonesia, offers her perspective on studies of religious diversity and gender issues in Indonesia and their place in (inter-)religious studies.
