Publication

This brief examines the radicalization process of a small Indonesian anti-apostasy organization and its transformation into a terrorist cell. The brief identifies several factors that led to the transformation: a core group of individuals, a charismatic leader, motivation and opportunity. Access to weapons was important, the authors argue, but not essential as attacks could be carried out largely without modern weapons and bombs. Although the 'Palembang Group' was small and relatively harmless, it exemplifies issues that the Indonesian authorities have to address to stem the tide of radicalization, including the fear of 'Christianisation' in certain areas.