Indonesia Pushes Inclusive Justice at UN Asia-Pacific Forum

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inclusive access to justice and eliminating discrimination against women and children.

This stance was underscored during a preparatory meeting for the 70th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), organized by UNESCAP and UN Women Asia-Pacific ahead of the global summit in New York this March.

Dewa Ayu Laksmiyati, Assistant Deputy at the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA), emphasized that Indonesia has successfully integrated the principles of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) into its national legislative framework.

“Indonesia affirms the central role of a strong and inclusive legal framework in promoting protection and equal access to justice,” she said during the hybrid meeting on Monday, February 2, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Dewa Ayu noted that women in the Asia-Pacific region remain disproportionately affected by violence, making it essential for legal systems to be affordable, accessible, and survivor-centered to ensure proper recovery and protection.

Indonesia has recorded several operational achievements in advancing gender-responsive justice. Among them is the establishment of Regional Technical Service Units for the Protection of Women and Children (UPTD PPA), which provide localized assistance.

The government has also streamlined reporting mechanisms by strengthening the SAPA 129 hotline and the SIMASHAM application. To remove financial barriers, free legal aid is available through Legal Aid Posts (Posbakum) across the country.

Despite these efforts, Dewa Ayu acknowledged that challenges persist. Limited institutional capacity, Indonesia’s complex geography, and entrenched social norms continue to discourage victims from reporting cases.

“Strengthening access to justice is carried out through systems that are accessible, affordable, survivor-centered, and gender-responsive,” she said, stressing that regional and international cooperation will be crucial moving forward.

These initiatives will be further discussed at the official 70th CSW session, scheduled for March 9–19, 2026, in New York. ***