"Women's economic powerlessness worsens the unequal power relations between women and men, making many women trapped in a cycle of violence and poverty," the minister observed while joining the Indonesian Female Journalists Forum, held online, from here on Saturday.
Women's economic empowerment will help women move up in power relations that have been unbalanced so far and contribute significantly to the welfare of the family and the nation, she said.
To ensure sustainable and competitive business in the future, the ministry is also paying special attention to the digital skills of women entrepreneurs, she informed.
Minister Puspayoga said that several sources have shown that women determine the birth of a quality next-generation.
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Women's leadership can also improve the economy and food security and even open up opportunities for current and future generations, she said, adding that equal and full participation of women and men is key to the welfare of a nation.
In the fight against COVID-19, the minister said women have been the backbone of the recovery process in the community, both socially and economically.
It is essential to jointly promote the importance of empowering women to achieve gender equality not only for women, but also for all levels of society, she added.
According to her, gender norms are not fixed. Still, the challenge that people face in achieving gender equality is the patriarchal culture that has been deeply rooted for centuries, she noted.
"Even so, I believe that nothing is impossible, especially if we work hard and work together," the minister remarked.
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Translator: Martha H, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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