Studi Etnografi tentang Pandangan Politik Kaum Muda Kristen Toraja terhadap Isu Agama dalam Pemilihan Presiden Indonesia

Abstract

Studies of religion and electoral preferences in Indonesia largely focus on Muslim-majority urban settings. This study examines how Christian youth in Tana Toraja, a Christian-majority area known for interreligious tolerance, interpret religious issues in presidential elections and determine their political choices. Using a qualitative ethnographic approach, the research involved 17 purposively selected informants aged 17–40. Data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted face-to-face and via WhatsApp video calls, supported by electoral data from the Tana Toraja General Elections Commission (KPU). The findings show that informants prioritize candidates’ character and track record, vision and mission, work experience, and economic policies rather than religious identity. They oppose the use of religion as an instrument for obtaining political support. Their responses are shaped by Christian teachings, especially the principle of love, and are generally reflective, peaceful, and non-confrontational. Voting decisions are largely independent of family and social pressure. Political parties exert limited influence, while social media is the principal source of political information. The study concludes that rational evaluation, religious ethics, and digital information shape the political preferences of Christian youth in Toraja more strongly than identity-based religious mobilization.