Global Conflict Triggered by Less Religious Society, Jokowi Says

Jakarta – The Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) said that global conflict is currently increasing, this is known based on the Global Peace Index 2023 report.

In the report, it's recorded that currently countries involved in conflicts have increased from 58 countries in 2008, to 91 countries.

"The death rate due to global conflict has also increased to 238 thousand people. The impact of economic losses rose 17 percent to US$17.5 trillion or equivalent to 13 percent of global GDP," President Widodo wrote as quoted from his personal Instagram, on Monday.

The Head of State suspected that the increase in global conflict is because of the world society becoming less religious or further away from God. This is known based on the IPSOS Global Religion report in 2023.

The survey was conducted on 19,731 people from 26 countries in the world. As a result, 29 percent stated that they are agnostic (doubt the existence of God) and atheist, the President added.

"In the field of religion, the world community is getting less religious."

Furthermore, according to Pew Research Center data, the number of physical violence in the name of religion and belief is also increasing.

In the midst of this situation, President Jokowi invited ASEAN communities to maintain tolerance among religious communities. He believes ASEAN can be an example in improving religious spirit.

"ASEAN countries, including Indonesia, have managed to maintain a strong tradition of tolerance. In the midst of cultural and religious diversity, Indonesia can continue to maintain harmony and manage ethnic, cultural, religious, and belief diversity," the President explained.