Deputy Minister for Women's Empowerment urges female leadership to achieve equitable economy

Jakarta — Indonesia’s Deputy Minister for Women’s Empowerment and Protection of Children Veronica Tan has called for strengthened female leadership to realise an equitable economy.

“Women must no longer wait. Women must take strategic steps to lead, drive an equitable economy, and create an Indonesia free from violence,” said Veronica Tan in a statement in Jakarta on Monday.

She made the remarks during the 80th anniversary commemoration of the Indonesian Christian Women’s Association (PWKI).

According to her, this effort is important because government policies will only be effective if supported by civil society collaboration, including PWKI, acting as drivers of legal literacy, incubators for community-based women’s micro-enterprises, providers of safe spaces for survivors, and strategic government partners in preventing violence.

Based on 2024 data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the female population comprises approximately 49.5 per cent of Indonesia’s total population, whilst the economically productive population (15–64 years old) accounts for 69 per cent of the total population.

“Violence against women and children represents a social emergency and a human rights violation. Many women are reluctant to report due to economic dependence, cultural pressure, fear of losing their livelihood, and limited access to services,” said Veronica Tan.

Therefore, according to her, addressing violence must tackle root causes—including power imbalances, economic dependence, and social norms that prevent survivors from seeking help.

The Deputy Minister affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with civil society organisations, communities, and all stakeholders to ensure women have equal access to resources, leadership opportunities, and comprehensive protection.