Held shortly after the simultaneous multi-level elections in February, we are delighted to host this international conference, providing a pivotal platform to investigate different aspects and dynamics of populism in Indonesia. Our focus extends beyond mere electoral outcomes, encompassing the nuanced interplay between populism, digital technologies, artificial intelligence, disinformation, religion, collective emotions and socio-political factors that shape Indonesia’s democratic discourse.

Over the course of two intense days, we will engage in comprehensive discussions through 31 papers, organized into eight thought-provoking panels. These panels, each addressing distinct facets of Indonesia’s populisms, ranging from Gender and Youth to Populist Strategy and Communication, from the complexities of Sharp Power, Disinformation, and Cancel Culture to the nuances of Authoritarianism and Islamist Populism. The diversity of topics underscores the breadth and depth of issues that this conference endeavours to explore.

In addition to the paper presentations, we are honoured to host two distinguished keynote speakers: Professor Simon Tormey, a renowned authority on populism theory with over a decade of scholarly contribution, and Professor Vedi Hadiz, a seasoned scholar specializing in Islamic populism within the Indonesian context. Their insights will enrich our understanding and stimulate critical dialogue throughout and after the conference.

Welcoming Speaker – Professor Fethi Mansouri (The Founding Director of the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, Deakin University, Australia)

Keynote Speaker 1 – Professor Simon Tormey (Dean of Arts and Education, the Faculty of Arts and Education, Deakin University, Australia)

Keynote Speaker 2 – Professor Vedi R Hadiz (The Director of Asian Institute, the University of Melbourne, Australia) 

For inquiries and submissions, please contact Hasnan Bachtiar at hasnan.bachtiar@deakin.edu.au