Radicalism is understood as an ideology or movement that seeks rapid and forceful socio-political change. Radical movements aim to transform all aspects of society and are often associated with religious ideologies.
It is important to note that religious radicalism can emerge from any faith. In Indonesia, where various religions coexist and the majority of the population practices Islam, religious radicalism is often linked to Islamic radicalism.
Radicalism frequently arises when individuals become alienated from their families and communities. Various factors contribute to this alienation, including religious, socio-economic, and political issues. This isolation typically leads to the formation of a new identity aligned with the individual’s ideological beliefs.
Understanding of radicalism among Muslims is generally low, especially among those who are new to the faith or have a limited grasp of Islamic teachings. As society becomes more technologically advanced, some segments of the Muslim community have adopted increasingly rigid views.
This trend is evidenced by the proliferation of radical Islamic groups in various countries, including Indonesia. These groups base their actions on strict interpretations of religious texts and believe that the only way to uphold Islamic law is through direct action, even if it involves violence.
Radical groups not only engage in violent acts but also clash with others who hold differing views or ideologies.
In the context of Indonesia, radicalism poses a serious threat to national unity and cohesion. Therefore, it is essential for Muslims to foster interfaith dialogue and cooperation to combat radicalism.
One prominent figure in the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), KH Ahmad Bahauddin Nur Salim, known as Gus Baha, frequently addresses social and religious issues, including radicalism. He asserts that religious scholars (ulama) play a vital role in addressing radicalism. This role can be realized through several approaches: