Addressing the Legal Challenges Faced by Batak Christians in North Sumatra: Religious Freedom and Social Justice

Abstract

Introduction: The Batak Christian community in North Sumatra faces legal challenges related to religious freedom, particularly regarding the construction of places of worship and conflicts with local authorities. Religious discrimination, coupled with legal obstacles, prevents this community from fully exercising their rights to practice and express their faith.
Purpose: This paper explores the legal challenges faced by the Batak Christian community in North Sumatra, focusing on issues related to religious freedom, discrimination, and the right to construct places of worship.
Method: The research uses a combination of legal case analysis, interviews with Batak Christian community leaders, and reviews of court rulings and local government policies.
Findings and Results: The study finds that while there are laws guaranteeing religious freedom, local authorities often impose additional restrictions on religious practices that disproportionately affect minority religious groups such as the Batak Christians.
Urgency: Given the rising instances of religious intolerance in Indonesia, it is crucial to address the legal challenges faced by religious minorities to safeguard religious freedom and ensure social justice.
Contribution: This paper sheds light on the legal issues surrounding religious freedom in Indonesia, particularly in relation to the Batak Christian community, and offers insights into how legal protections for religious minorities can be strengthened.
Recommendation: The study recommends a comprehensive review of local government policies on religious freedom, increased legal support for religious minorities, and stronger enforcement of national laws protecting the right to worship.