"In the midst of various obstacles that still hinder women, in fact, women are strength. This narrative is an important narrative that we must continue to echo together, so that women continue to develop their potential. Together, let us open the widest possible access and participation of women in the public space," Puspayoga noted in a statement, Jakarta, on Thursday.
One of the biggest barriers for women to participate in various development sectors is the gender gap caused by the patriarchal culture in society.
According to Minister Puspayoga, the active and full participation of women in development will be beneficial to society is various ways, such as increasing inclusiveness and sustainable community welfare.
"This can only be achieved if women participate, work hand in hand, break through existing biases, voice for change, contribute to decision-making, and dare to act for the common good. Women, who dare to break down various barriers that surround them, have also created various positive changes," the minister affirmed.
Since ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in 1984 until now, the Government of Indonesia has continued to be committed to promoting the achievement of gender justice and equality in Indonesia.
"In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and Indonesia’s G20 Presidency with the theme "Recover Together, Recover Stronger," the Government of Indonesia wants to ensure that women become an integral part of the post-pandemic recovery process, not only as beneficiaries but as one of the key actors,” the minister stated.
Indonesia is pressing for women’s empowerment to achieve a sustainable and just transition, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Indonesia to the United Nations, Mohammad Kurniadi Koba, earlier noted.
“It is crucial for us to further mainstream women’s empowerment to achieve just and sustainable transition,” Koba remarked while speaking at a webinar on "Energy Transition and Rural Women," accessed virtually from here on Thursday.
Related news: Govt to continue to enhance migrant worker protection: minister
He underlined the importance of changing the mindset, from seeing women as objects of policies and programs to viewing them as the agents of change.
“This transformation of mindset is particularly important in our efforts to ensure a sustainable and just energy transition,” he noted.
Nevertheless, several rules are still required to turn this into reality, he noted while adding that inadequate access to energy also led to an imbalance that has affected women and girls.
Related news: Gender-responsive migrant workers' protection crucial: Minister
Translator: Anita P, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2022
