Jakarta (ANTARA) - Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Bintang Puspayoga accentuated the importance of realizing gender equality in the world to realize sustainable development.

"With the importance of the gender equality agenda being highlighted for the entire world community, gender equality has also been designated as the fifth goal of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," Puspayoga stated during an international webinar titled "Empowered Women Dare To Speakup" attended in Jakarta on Wednesday.

The minister noted that gender equality is related to the SDGs principle that aims to ensure that no one is left behind, including women.

"The fifth agenda is special since it is not only the intended agenda but also part of the overall principle of the SDGs itself, which is to never leave anyone behind," Puspayoga affirmed.

The minister emphasized that equality and protection for women were non-negotiable common goals to ensure women's contribution in all lines of the development plan.

According to Puspayoga, women are valuable human resources that can bring progress in all situations, including crisis scenarios.

The minister later explained that this year's commemoration of International Women's Day, falling on March 8, encouraged women to contribute to the community, country, and world.

"This year's commemoration of International Women's Day, with the theme "Gender Equality Today For a Sustainable Tomorrow," reflects the progress that women have made in voicing changes, contributing to decision-making, and celebrating the courage and determination of women, who have played an extraordinary role in contributing to the community, country, and the international world as well," she stressed.

The minister is optimistic that the momentum to commemorate International Women's Day this year would help to realize more comprehensive and inclusive protection and fulfillment of women's rights.

Related news: Plan Indonesia calls for gender equality
Related news: State budget supports gender-based budgeting since 2000: Minister


Translator: Anita Permata Dewi, Resinta S
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2022