Religious freedom in the implementation of Islamic law: Study case of the implementation of Islamic Criminal Law on non-muslim in Aceh, Indonesia

Aceh is the only area that applies Islamic law in Indonesia. However, these implementations often cause controversy, among others due to the practice of applying Islamic law to non-Muslims. Based on the problems, this thesis aims to examine, explain, and describe the impact of the implementation of Islamic law in Aceh on non-Muslim religious freedom. To realize this goal, this thesis will answer two main issues that need to be discussed, namely how Islamic law is applied to non-Muslims in Aceh and how the implementation of non-Muslim religious freedom in Aceh works. This thesis uses a qualitative approach that collects data through methods of observation, interviews, and documentation. Through this research method, this thesis has successfully concluded that the application of Islamic law in Aceh does not have a major impact on non-Muslim religious freedom. Or in other words, even though Aceh applies Islamic law, non-Muslims remain free to worship or perform religious activities in accordance with the teachings of their respective religions. This reality is supported by several findings; first, Islamic law is basically only applied to Muslims, but in the context of the implementation of "jinayat law" (Islamic criminal law) can also be involved with Islamic law. This does not mean forcing non-Muslims to follow Islamic law, but to avoid a legal vacancy and create justice for all Aceh people. Secondly, the implementation of non-Muslim religious freedom is guaranteed in the legislation issued by the central government (Jakarta) and the Aceh government regarding the implementation of Islamic law. So that non-Muslim citizens can freely, without prohibition and coercion to worship or perform their religious activities. In addition, the non-Muslim response also shows that they can accept the implementation of Islamic Shari'a as well, even it has benefited their lives in Aceh.