The problem of violence against women became more complicated due to the COVID-19 pandemic
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Bintang Puspayoga drew a parallel between the issue of violence against women and the iceberg phenomenon.

"Violence against women can be likened to the iceberg phenomenon wherein the real problem is much deeper and more complex than what is seen on the surface," Puspayoga remarked during a webinar titled "Violence Against Women in the COVID-19 Pandemic in Eastern Indonesia" here on Thursday.

The minister noted that violence can occur anywhere and by anyone, and even perpetrators of violence are those known to the victims, be it their parents, relatives, teachers, friends, or neighbors.

Violent incidents can also take place at homes, schools, boarding schools, workplaces, public facilities, and places perceived to be safe, she pointed out.

Moreover, Puspayoga believes that the entrenched patriarchal culture in society has placed women in a lower position than men. As a result, women especially become more vulnerable to violence, discrimination, and other forms of mistreatment.

Based on data from the Online Information System for the Protection of Women and Children (Simponi PPA) of the year of input, some 8,803 cases of violence were reported against women, out of which 74.6 percent were related to domestic violence.

The minister highlighted the increase in the number of cases of violence against women during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The problem of violence against women became more complicated due to the COVID-19 pandemic," Puspayoga remarked.

Her team noted that the massive use of internet during the pandemic had raised the risk of online gender-based violence.

Hence, the minister called on all parties to support the passage of the sexual violence prevention bill (RUU TPKS).

"I urge all parties to support, monitor, and fight together, so that the sexual violence prevention bill can be passed immediately," she remarked.

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Translator: Anita D, Kenzu T
Editor: Sri Haryati
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