Cultural Contestation and State Responses to LGBT Acceptance: A Comparison Between Indonesia and European Models of Inclusiveness
Kontestasi Budaya Dan Respons Negara terhadap Penerimaan LGBT: Perbandingan Antara Indonesia Dan Model Inklusivitas Di Eropa
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the dynamics of LGBT acceptance in Indonesia in comparison with inclusive models in several European countries, such as Sweden and Germany. Using a constructivist and human rights theory approach, this research explores how cultural norms, religious values, and social constructions influence public perception and state policies regarding LGBT rights. Constructivist theory is used to examine how Indonesia's cultural identity and social norms, heavily influenced by religious values such as Islam, lead to conservative societal attitudes and policies towards LGBT rights. In contrast, secular European countries reflect different social constructions, with more open and inclusive norms. Human rights theory serves as a framework to evaluate the policy approach differences between Indonesia and Europe regarding LGBT rights, especially in implementing principles of equality and non-discrimination. In Indonesia, there is a tension between international human rights principles and local cultural norms, leading to resistance toward LGBT rights recognition. Meanwhile, European countries tend to adopt human rights standards as the foundation for inclusive policies that provide stronger legal protections for the LGBT community. This research uses a qualitative method with secondary data analysis of literature reviews, government policy documents, reports from international human rights organizations, and academic journal articles on LGBT rights in both Indonesia and Europe. The findings reveal that social constructions and cultural identities in Indonesia play a significant role in shaping state policies that tend to uphold traditional values, whereas inclusivity models in European countries are driven by a recognition of universal rights and equality principles. This study emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural and social factors in public policies related to LGBT rights," a more specific concluding statement might be: "This study calls for an approach that integrates cultural and social contexts with international human rights standards to promote inclusive policies for LGBT rights in Indonesia
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