Minister Arifah: Harkitnas Momentum Strengthens Commitment to Combat Violence

Jakarta (ANTARA) – On the occasion of the 118th National Awakening Day (Harkitnas), we reaffirm our commitment through the Ikrar Bersama Bangkit Lawan Kekerasan, with the spirit that we do not want to be victims and we do not want to be perpetrators of violence. The statement is simple, she said, but carries a strong meaning. She said violence is a form of crime against humanity. Its damaging effects extend not only to the victims’ physical well-being but also to their psychological, social and economic well-being. It disproportionately affects women and children, as evidenced by the high prevalence of violence against them. In a broader sense, it will also affect national defence, particularly in realising Indonesia Emas 2045. The 2024 National Survey on the Experience of Life of Children and Adolescents (SNPHAR) also notes that one in two children aged 13–17 has experienced violence in any form at some point in their lives. The country has a strong commitment to protecting women and children from violence. This is reflected in various policies and laws rooted in the Constitution, namely the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia. However, these efforts must be strengthened by reaffirming the commitment of all parties to halt violence against women and children.