"We must remind ourselves that involving women in development is more than just affirmative action, it is a form of respect for human dignity. Men and women must strive together, not to sideline each other," she noted in a statement received here on Wednesday.
Maharani made these remarks while speaking at the international conference, titled "Role of Women in Strengthening Global Resilience and Advancing Diplomacy," held at California State University (CSU), Sacramento, the United States, on Tuesday (June 10).
She emphasized that differences should not determine roles in any aspect of life, as gender equality recognizes that men and women have equal political, social, economic, and cultural rights.
The speaker highlighted that women constitute half of Indonesia’s population and actively contribute across sectors such as politics, the economy, social affairs, the environment, sports, and science and research.
"Almost half of Indonesia’s 280 million population are women. Many women have contributed significantly to Indonesia’s progress," she noted.
Maharani also outlined women’s involvement in Indonesia’s political landscape, including the implementation of Law No. 7 of 2017 on General Elections, which requires political parties to ensure at least 30 percent female representation in parliament.
"During the 2019–2024 period, the percentage of women in parliament increased from 17.3 percent to 21.39 percent," she stated.
She further highlighted Indonesia’s commitment to gender equality through participation in the G20 Parliamentary Forum (P20) and other international parliamentary meetings to continue advocating for gender equality.
"Progress and prosperity for humankind can only be achieved if women are also advancing and prospering," she stressed.
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Translator: Melalusa, Kenzu
Editor: Primayanti
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