An Analysis of the HKBP Church’s Stance on Peraturan Pemerintah No. 25 Tahun 2024

The Church’s Political Effort Toward Holistic Liberation

Abstract

The “Red Carpet” for religious civil society organizations (CSOs) in the politics of the mining business has recently sparked controversy. This issue arises from a government policy that grants mining permits to religious organizations, with the government arguing that this policy will enhance public welfare through these organizations. This article analyzes the potential threats to democracy and environmental exploitation underlying this policy. The study employs a literature review method, drawing on academic research and ecclesiastical documents examined through the lens of democratic and eco-theological values. This research finds that granting religious organizations control over the mining business process significantly threatens democracy and risks triggering horizontal conflicts. The author reflects on the HKBP’s consistent opposition to this policy as a response aligned with democratic principles and the eco-theological spirit, mirroring Jesus's political approach. In contrast, PBNU’s favorable response to the policy appears to be driven by more pragmatic considerations, particularly the economic self-sufficiency of religious organizations. These findings serve as a reference for re-evaluating the moral virtues of religious organizations, which should safeguard their followers' trust.