ISLAM AND POLITICAL INCLUSION: CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN A MULTICULTURAL DEMOCRACY — A CASE STUDY OF MATARAM CITY, INDONESIA

Abstract

Multicultural democracy faces challenges in managing differences in religious and ethnic identities and political interests that have the potential to trigger social conflict. The city of Mataram is a sociopolitical space characterized by the diversity of religious, ethnic, and social groups within a single local democratic arena. This study aims to analyze the contribution of Islamic political values to strengthening political inclusion and conflict resolution in the multicultural society of Mataram City. The study employs a qualitative approach using a case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis related to political participation, representation, intergroup relations, and the management of diversity in Mataram City. The analysis draws on the perspectives of Islamic political thought, political inclusion theory, and conflict resolution. The findings indicate that the principles of ‘adl (justice), shura (consultation), musawah (equality), tasamuh (tolerance), and maslahah (public interest) are relevant to fostering inclusive political practices and the peaceful management of differences. However, the implementation of these values is highly dependent on the capacity of political and governmental institutions to guarantee equal rights, representation, access to decision-making, and meaningful participation for various social groups. This study confirms that political inclusion can serve as a bridge between Islamic values and multicultural democracy by transforming diversity from a potential source of conflict into social capital for strengthening social cohesion. This study contributes to the field of Islamic politics and local governance through an integrative approach that combines Islamic values, political inclusion, and conflict resolution.