Regulating religion in a time of COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia: context, dynamics, and implication

Purpose This study aims to perform a systematic review of the dialectics and telematics strategy for regulating religion during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also analyzes some important issues related to religions, state, and society. Design/methodology/approach A critical literature review was performed to complete this study, using media, institutional, national, and international reports, as well as recent and previous studies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings Religion was one of the social entities that had a crucial effect on the COVID-19 pandemic. The new system in the form of social distancing affects its performance. Furthermore, the response of religion in Indonesia is unique when its status is considered as the largest Islamic country in the world. Therefore, this study attempts to analyze and demonstrate the dynamics of relationships between actors, religion, and state in the process and strategy of religious regulation. Research limitations/implications This study was carried out using a single methodological approach. Practical implications This study provides input to both religion and the state (government) in building a synergy of constructive responses to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Social implications It provides input to society in understanding the critical intersection between religion, state, and society. Originality/value This may be the first academic study that analyzes the problems of the process of regulating religion in the context of COVID-19.