Religion and Policy Journal

Democratic Conundrum: Introspecting Complexities and Dynamics in Pakistan's Political Landscape

Souvik Chatterjee — 2023-12-31

Research Problem: This research aims to explore the main obstacles hindering Pakistan's democratic transition, including weak economic policies, structural imbalances, and military interference, all of which have led to insecurity, conflict, and the oppression of civilian rule. In addition, this research also aims to understand Pakistan's political culture which combines autocratic and democratic ideologies, as well as how political satisfaction with different regimes impacts the acceptance of military regimes and the inability of marginalized groups to express their opinions under authoritarian rule.

Research purposes: The aim of this research is to identify and analyze the main challenges facing Pakistan's democracy, including issues of partisanship and segregation practices, as well as to understand historical and current issues that can help identify changes needed to strengthen democracy in Pakistan.

Research methods: This research uses a descriptive-analytical approach by collecting data through literature reviews and analysis of official documents, such as government reports and international agency reports. Interdisciplinary analysis is used to understand the impact of historical and socio-cultural factors on the development of democracy in Pakistan.

Results and Discussion: The research results show that the main challenges to Pakistan's democracy include fraudulent electoral processes, political centralization, segregation, and biased party politics. The lack of a dynamic civil society and military domination of civilian government are contributing factors to the failure of democracy in Pakistan. Discussions of history and current issues also provide insight into the changes needed to improve democracy in the country.

Research Implications and Contributions: This research has important implications for policymakers and stakeholders interested in improving democracy in Pakistan. By understanding and identifying the challenges faced, this research can provide guidance for developing appropriate strategies and measures to strengthen democracy and promote political inclusion in Pakistan.

Understanding the Interplay of Religion and Social Policy: Challenges and Opportunities

Mohamad Ichsana Nur — 2023-12-31

Research Problem: This research explores the complex dynamics between religion and social policy, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that arise from these interactions. The focus is on the influence of religious meaning systems at the individual, group, community and societal levels.

Research purposes: The aim of this research is to discover how wise policy implementation can optimize the positive role of religion in prevention, healing, group empowerment, and increasing community capacity, as well as to identify critical challenges that may be faced in the process.

Research methods: This research uses a qualitative approach with in-depth research methods that include positive and negative aspects of the influence of religion. Collaboration between policy makers, psychologists, and religious institutions is considered important in overcoming the identified barriers.

Results and Discussion: The research results show that wise policy implementation can optimize the role of religion in various aspects of people's lives. However, challenges such as the constitutional separation between religious institutions and the state, incompatibilities in systems of meaning, and the complexity of religious beliefs are also identified.

Research Implications and Contributions: This research provides better insight into how policy can be an effective tool in strengthening societal welfare by wisely integrating religious values. The findings of this research build a bridge between the complex interactions of religion and policy, while highlighting the potential for constructive collaboration that can have a positive impact on society at large.

Divine Diplomacy: Religious Influence in Global Policymaking

Fitri Pebriani Wahyu — 2023-12-31

Research Problem: This research aims to investigate the complex interactions between religion and global policymaking and their impact on international relations.

Research purposes: The aim of this research is to comprehensively investigate the influence of religion on diplomatic decisions and international relations, as well as to provide a deeper understanding of how global policy is influenced by religious beliefs.

Research methods: The research methods used include analysis of historical documents, diplomatic archives, and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders such as policy makers and religious leaders. This research approach provides a nuanced exploration exploring the multi-faceted dimensions of religious influence on diplomatic decisions and international relations.

Results and Discussion: This research highlights historical patterns of religious influence on foreign policy and makes significant contributions to academic discussions of international relations. The results of this research help understand the motivations and actions of states in the context of a complex geopolitical landscape.

Research Implications and Contributions: The implications of this research extend to policymakers, scholars, and the general public by providing a deeper understanding of how religious beliefs shape global strategy. By recognizing this dimension in diplomatic interactions, this research provides a basis for creating culturally sensitive and effective foreign policy, promoting dialogue, and strengthening cooperation between countries with diverse religious backgrounds.

Government, Religion and Fake News

Yevhen Leheza — 2023-12-31

Research Problem: This research aims to understand the role of social media in the dissemination of information, especially news, as well as the challenges faced regarding the spread of fake news by individuals who do not verify its accuracy.

Research purposes: The aim of this research is to educate social media users to use these platforms wisely, with a focus on understanding the role of social media in the dissemination of information..

Research methods: This research uses a qualitative approach by conducting a literature review and discourse analysis based on Miles and Huberman's theory.

Results and Discussion: Although social media plays a vital role in the dissemination of news, it is vulnerable to exploitation by individuals who do not verify its accuracy. Key challenges include a lack of cultural literacy and insensitivity to the information being shared. To tackle the spread of fake news, important steps include implementing robust information filtering, increasing digital literacy, and establishing reporting mechanisms to relevant authorities.

Research Implications and Contributions: This research has implications for increasing understanding of the spread of fake news on social media and providing suggestions for addressing this problem. The implications include the need to comply with applicable laws and regulations as well as encouragement for social media users to act responsibly in sharing information online.

Faith, Politics, and Democracy: Unraveling Historical and Contemporary Dynamics in Religious Influences on Electoral Processes

Kurniawan Arif Maspul — 2023-12-31

Research Problem: This qualitative research addresses the intricate relationship between religion, politics, and societal dynamics, focusing on historical contexts in the early 7th century Islamic Caliphate and contemporary Saudi Arabia. It aims to understand how religion influences political decisions and societal structures, both historically and in the present day.

Research purposes: The primary purpose of this study is to analyze the spread of Islam's impact on governance and societal norms, particularly examining the dominance of Islamic governance in the early 7th century Caliphate and its evolution over time. Additionally, it seeks to empirically demonstrate the role of religious authorities in shaping governmental policies in contemporary Saudi Arabia.

Research methods: Methodologically, this research employs qualitative analysis techniques, utilizes unique datasets, and adopts a comparative approach. It delves into historical records and contemporary observations to uncover nuanced interactions between religious institutions and political choices.

Results and Discussion: The study reveals the historical dominance of Islamic governance and its subsequent evolution due to various societal and political movements. It also provides empirical evidence of the significant role religious authorities play in shaping governmental policies in contemporary Saudi Arabia, particularly in social and legal frameworks. The research discusses the influence of religious leaders on their followers and explores the role of clerics in shaping public opinion and political participation.

Research Implications and Contributions: This study has several implications and contributions. Firstly, it enriches our understanding of the intricate dynamics between Islam and politics, offering valuable insights into the historical depth and contemporary significance of this interconnected relationship. Secondly, it contributes to comparative political research by reflecting on the enduring legacy of Huntington's clash of civilizations thesis, highlighting the ongoing relevance of religious influences in Middle Eastern political systems. Finally, it sheds light on the role of religious authorities in shaping governmental policies and societal norms, emphasizing the importance of considering religious dynamics in political analyses and decision-making processes.