Semarang (14/10) – The International Office of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at  Universitas Diponegoro organized a General Lecture with the theme “Political and Religious Relations in the Perspective of National and Global Politics.” The general lecture was delivered by Deputy Associate Dean-International of Monash University, Prof. Dr. Nadirsyah Hosen, LL.M., M.A., Ph.D. Dr. Drs. Muhammad Adnan, M.A. also participated as a discussant in the general lecture.

The Public Lecture, opened by the Vice Dean for Resources, Mrs. Ika Riswanti Putranti, S.H., M.H., Ph.D., took place in the FISIP Auditorium. In her opening remarks, Mrs. Ika expressed her appreciation for the organization of the general lecture, which was attended by over 200 participants. According to Mrs. Ika, the topic addressed in the public lecture is highly relevant, given the increasingly complex dynamics of the relationship between politics and religion, both at the national and global levels.

During the presentation session, Prof. Nadir highlighted the dynamics of the relationship between religion and politics, especially at the global level. From the 1950s to the 1970s, the role of religion was minimal, with religion considered a private matter separate from the public sphere. However, this view changed after the sociologist Jose Cassanova presented his research findings. Cassanova’s study found that religion never disappeared from society. This is reflected in the political practices of various countries. In Australia, for example, public leaders are still inspired by religious values in making public policy.

After the presentation session, participants had the opportunity to ask questions guided by the event’s moderator, Mr. Hendra Try Ardianto, S.I.P., M.A. In response to a participant’s question, Dr. Drs. Muhammad Adnan, M.A., reminded that claims of absolute truth in the beliefs of religious followers actually negate the universal values inherent in every religion. This should be avoided so that we can coexist and live peacefully in diversity.

Before the public lecture concluded, the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Drs. Teguh Yuwono, M.Pol.Admin., presented tokens of appreciation to the speakers. The public lecture was then concluded with a group photo of the speakers, discussants, moderator, along with the vice deans, faculty members, and attendees.