Counter-Narrative Strategies of Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah in Online Deradicalization Efforts

Abstract

The development of information technology has created new spaces for the spread of ideologies, including radicalism. Intolerant, anti-nationalist, and violent narratives based on religion circulate widely through social media, video channels, and anonymous websites. In this context, mainstream religious organizations such as Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah play a crucial role as producers of moderate religious counter-narratives. This article examines the strategies of these two organizations in producing, disseminating, and strengthening digital-based deradicalization narratives. Through a literature review of organizational documents, previous research, and official digital publications, this article shows that NU and Muhammadiyah's digital deradicalization efforts are carried out through three main focuses: (1) reconstructing moderate religious discourse; (2) establishing a digital media ecosystem; and (3) strengthening public religious literacy. These findings confirm that NU and Muhammadiyah's moderate religious counter-narratives are an important foundation for maintaining a healthy digital space free from the penetration of radical ideology.