Indonesia Prioritizes Children’s Rights in Policy Decisions

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifah Fauzi stressed that children must be recognized as subjects of development with the right to be heard in every decision-making process. She said meaningful participation is crucial to realizing responsive development and building a more child-friendly Indonesia.

“Children’s voices are vital in creating a more child-friendly Indonesia. Meaningful participation means every child has the opportunity to access safe, inclusive, discrimination-free spaces and receive feedback on their aspirations,” Minister Arifah said in a press statement in Jakarta on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

She noted that developing Indonesia’s next generation cannot rely solely on intellectual intelligence. Mental health must also be prioritized to ensure children can grow optimally and actively participate in development.

“Being mentally healthy does not mean never feeling sad or afraid, but being able to recognize and manage emotions. Having the courage to ask for help and maintaining hope for growth are important components of mental health,” she said.

Minister Arifah emphasized that children’s mental health requires continuous collaboration among families, schools, communities, and the government. Such synergy is considered essential to creating a safe environment that supports optimal child growth and development.

“Families must be loving spaces, while schools must be free from violence and bullying. The government is strengthening policies and mental health services for children,” she added.

Deputy for Coordination of Family and Population Quality Improvement at the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture, Woro Sri Hastuti, said meaningful child involvement is a key prerequisite for responsive development. Children’s participation is considered vital to ensure every policy truly reflects their best interests.

“Children should not be content with being merely program targets or beneficiaries. They must be critical, courageous in voicing opinions, and able to influence policies from a child’s perspective for future improvements,” said Woro. (Misni Parjiati)