Conflict and Nonviolence Ulama in the Aceh Peace Process

The Peace Agreement signed on August 15, 2005 between the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) and the Government of Indonesia (GoI), ending nearly 30 years of bloody conflict, was an achievement in the history of conflict resolution. Most studies have focused on the role of acting parties and foreign mediators leading up to the “ribbon cutting” or “signature placing” to symbolize the agreement. This study examines the role of the Ulama (Muslim religious scholars) in their continuing efforts at reconciliation even in the most difficult moment at the peak of the conflict. We provide the context of the Acehnese conflict and review the critical role of the Ulama in seeking a peaceful solution. We narrate the course of the up-and-down peace efforts in Aceh through the eyes of the Ulama, representing one of the most influential groups in Acehnese society yet themselves reflecting different interests and persuasions. Their efforts represent an elaboration of deeply embodied Islamic principles of peace and reconciliation manifested in their daily work and professional routines