Reflection on women’s fight for equality in Indonesian politics
Source: The Jakarta Post
With Indonesia’s 2024 presidential, legislative and regional elections behind us, attention now shifts to the new administration under President Prabowo Subianto. These elections showcased the resilience of Indonesia’s democratic spirit but also revealed ongoing challenges for women in politics, particularly the alarming rise of online violence that demands immediate attention.
As the world observes the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10, it is crucial to reflect on these issues and consider how Indonesia’s new government can champion meaningful reforms. Protecting women in politics is not just about ensuring equality; it is essential for the future of Indonesia’s democracy.
A Nov. 28 report by The Jakarta Post, citing statements from United Nations Women Indonesia, highlighted how gender-based violence (GBV) remains a neglected issue globally as well as in Indonesia. According to UN Women, this neglect is evident in the limited attention for violence against women (VAW) compared to other pressing issues like climate change. Yet, the cost of inaction is enormous: the World Bank estimates that GBV costs some countries between 1.2 percent and 3.7 percent, or even higher, of their gross domestic product.
Read here the full article published by The Jakarta Post on 7 December 2024.
Image by The Jakarta Post
With Indonesia’s 2024 presidential, legislative and regional elections behind us, attention now shifts to the new administration under President Prabowo Subianto. These elections showcased the resilience of Indonesia’s democratic spirit but also revealed ongoing challenges for women in politics, particularly the alarming rise of online violence that demands immediate attention.
As the world observes the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10, it is crucial to reflect on these issues and consider how Indonesia’s new government can champion meaningful reforms. Protecting women in politics is not just about ensuring equality; it is essential for the future of Indonesia’s democracy.
A Nov. 28 report by The Jakarta Post, citing statements from United Nations Women Indonesia, highlighted how gender-based violence (GBV) remains a neglected issue globally as well as in Indonesia. According to UN Women, this neglect is evident in the limited attention for violence against women (VAW) compared to other pressing issues like climate change. Yet, the cost of inaction is enormous: the World Bank estimates that GBV costs some countries between 1.2 percent and 3.7 percent, or even higher, of their gross domestic product.
Read here the full article published by The Jakarta Post on 7 December 2024.
Image by The Jakarta Post