Religious Organization Capacity in Governing Social Distancing in Indonesia

Abstract

This study aims to provide an analysis of the governance of social restriction policies by Islamic social organizations as an act of religious moderation and an effort to suppress the spread of the COVID-19 virus in Indonesia through a socio-religious perspective. The worship activities of the Muslim community are identical to gathering masses or congregations, the social intensity in these religious activities is a contradiction of government policies related to social distancing. This research is a descriptive qualitative research with literature study method. NU as the largest Islamic organization in Indonesia takes a role in administering social restrictions, including efforts to prevent the spread of other viruses. The steps taken by NU show how the Islamic organization has become the trust of the community and government partners in spreading the public agenda.