Reproductive Health Justice and Legal Pluralism: Navigating State Law, Religion, and Women’s Autonomy in Indonesia

Abstract

Reproductive health justice remains a contested issue globally, particularly in legally plural societies where state law intersects with religious and customary norms. Indonesia presents a unique case in which reproductive health regulation is shaped by statutory law, Islamic jurisprudence, and local cultural values. This article examines how legal pluralism affects women’s reproductive health rights, focusing on access to contraception, maternal healthcare, and abortion services. Using a doctrinal and feminist legal analysis, the study evaluates relevant legislation, religious discourses, and policy implementation practices. The findings indicate that while Indonesia formally recognizes reproductive health rights, restrictive interpretations and moral governance often limit women’s autonomy in practice. Disparities are especially pronounced among rural, low-income, and adolescent women. The paper argues that reproductive health justice requires harmonizing legal pluralism with rights-based principles that prioritize bodily autonomy and gender equality. By situating Indonesia within global reproductive justice debates, the article highlights the challenges faced by Muslim-majority democracies in balancing cultural legitimacy and international human rights obligations. The study proposes legal and policy reforms that strengthen women’s agency while respecting socio-religious diversity.