God, Government, and the Spotlight: Trust, Tensions, and Perceptions in Indonesia’s Religious Landscape

Religion and Social Communication Vol. 24, No. 1 (2026)
ISSN 3057-0883 (Online)

Authors

Winda Galuh Desfianti
LSPR Institute of Communication and Business
Email: windagaluh12@gmail.com

Angela Annabel
LSPR Institute of Communication and Business
Email: janice.annabel@gmail.com

Angelina
Politeknik Kreatif Indonesia
Email: angelina@edu.esmodjakarta.com

Abstract

This study explores the evolving relationship between religion, governance, and digital communication in Indonesia, focusing on how public trust is constructed within a complex and pluralistic religious landscape. Drawing on Public Trust Theory as the primary analytical lens, the research investigates how perceptions of government fairness, procedural legitimacy, transparency, and representational inclusivity influence citizens’ trust in state institutions, particularly regarding religious policy. Through a mixed-methods design combining quantitative survey data with qualitative narrative responses, the study examines Indonesians’ evaluations of the state’s role in managing religious affairs and the broader impact of digital media on shaping public perceptions. Findings suggest that fairness and consistency in governance remain the most significant determinants of trust, while social media functions as both an informative bridge and a disruptive force, capable of amplifying inclusivity as well as polarization. The study contributes to interdisciplinary discussions on religious pluralism, political legitimacy, and communication practices, offering insights for policymakers, religious leaders, and communication strategists seeking to strengthen institutional transparency, inclusivity, and trust in Indonesia’s diverse socio-political environment. 222_ARC Journal Vol 24 No. 1 (2…

Keywords

Public trust, governance, procedural legitimacy, religious pluralism, religious policy, social media, Indonesia

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Pages: 222–240

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62461/DAA120126

Submitted, Accepted & Published Dates

Submitted: September 1, 2025
Accepted: December 1, 2025
Published: January 1, 2026

Cite this article

Desfianti, Winda Galuh, Angela Annabel, and Angelina. “God, Government, and the Spotlight: Trust, Tensions, and Perceptions in Indonesia’s Religious Landscape.” Religion and Social Communication 24, no. 1 (2026): 222–240. https://doi.org/10.62461/DAA120126.

God, Government, and the Spotlight: Trust, Tensions, and Perceptions in Indonesia’s Religious Landscape

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