Deputy for Community Participation Indra Gunawan believes that synergy and participation of citizens were instrumental in driving endeavors to empower womankind and safeguard children.
"Women and children hold a strategic position in the face of cross-sectoral issues. A nation can successfully develop in line with the contribution of women and children," Gunawan noted in a statement received in Jakarta, Friday.
Working in that direction, the Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry had established a Public Participation Forum for the welfare of women and children (Puspa) since 2017.
The Puspa Forum, set up in 33 provinces and several regencies and cities, involves religious and community organizations, universities, academics, professional institutions, the business world, and mass media.
"Community participation is a crucial aspect of the policies centering on women's empowerment and child protection," he emphasized.
Gunawan opined that the participation of citizens too is a crucial requirement to apply gender policies.
Gunawan highlighted the need for central and local governments to synergize efforts with community institutions.
"The more the number of elements involved in tackling women- and child-related issues, more effectually can the programs and activities of women's empowerment and child protection be implemented," he pointed out.
EDITED BY INE
Translator: Azis Kurmala
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
