Challenges for Religious Organizations in Realizing Ecological Justice in the Midst of Mining Legalization Indonesia

Abstract

Indonesia has abundant natural resources, such as minerals and coal, which are the pillars of the national economy. However, the exploitation of these resources has caused an ecological crisis, including deforestation, pollution, and carbon emissions. Government policies in the mining sector are considered not to be in line with the commitment to reduce emissions in the NDC document and the 2030 FOLU Net Sink strategy. Government Regulation Number 25 of 2024 which prioritizes WIUPK to religious mass organizations has sparked debate because it risks legitimizing extractive activities on the basis of religious morals. This paper analyzes the challenges of the involvement of religious mass organizations in mining policies in realizing the welfare of society through Robert Bullard's political ecology theory and Antonio Gramsci's hegemony. The method used is a qualitative method with a literature study approach. The results of the analysis show that environmental damage occurs more in vulnerable groups, and the involvement of mass organizations in mining has become a tool for the state's ideological consensus, shifting the prophetic function of religion. To ensure progressive legal principles, the state needs to guarantee community involvement through FPIC mechanisms and ecological accountability. This study emphasizes the importance of building critical awareness in society and mass organizations to encourage fair and sustainable mining governance.