NasDem Surpasses 30% Female Quota in Parliament Well Before Constitutional Court Ruling

Cindy Monica, a member of the NasDem Party faction in the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), supports the Constitutional Court’s ruling reinforcing political parties’ obligation to meet a 30% female representation quota in legislative candidate lists.

Cindy stressed that women’s participation in national politics is not merely a formality to meet paper quotas. More importantly, their presence is crucial for bringing more inclusive perspectives to public policy formulation.

“Women possess the skills, experience, and social sensitivity essential for policy-making. Therefore, political spaces must become more open and fair for Indonesian women,” Cindy stated on Thursday (28 May).

Cindy noted that the Court’s firm stance is a clear demonstration of the state’s commitment to strengthening representative democracy. Female legislators in parliament are expected to strengthen oversight on critical issues directly affecting communities, including education, healthcare, child and women’s protection, and family welfare.

The NasDem legislator from West Sumatra’s Second Electoral District also highlighted her party’s long-standing concrete commitment to affirming female representation.

According to records from the 2019 elections, NasDem was the only political party to successfully secure over 30% female representation in the DPR. At that time, NasDem secured 32.2% female representation—equivalent to 19 seats out of the party’s total 59 DPR members.

“This proves women are not merely supplementary in politics. Given the opportunity, women can emerge as leaders and genuine representatives of the people,” Cindy said.

Cindy urged women, especially the youth, to shed doubts and courageously take on national leadership roles. Women are encouraged to be more confident in directly voicing public aspirations at the national level.

“Politics must no longer be seen as a space limited to women. Today, women must be present, speak up, and help shape Indonesia’s future,” Cindy concluded.

The Constitutional Court’s ruling reflects the state’s support for women. The Court’s reinforcement of the 30% female representation requirement was emphasised.

Understanding the urgency of the 30% female representation quota as a pillar of affirmative action politics to create a more inclusive and fair Indonesian democracy.

The Constitutional Court granted Case No. 128/PUU-XXIV/2026.

Direct regional elections have long been a key instrument for strengthening public participation and ensuring people’s involvement in determining local leadership.

As long as female representation remains confined to personal and domestic imagery, space for women’s leadership will continue to narrow.

Meeting the 30% female quota is neither impossible nor difficult for political parties in Indonesia.

Anis added that indicators of a healthy democracy cannot be measured solely by formal numerical targets on paper.

The Constitutional Court’s ruling reflects support for women. The Court’s reinforcement of the 30% female representation requirement was emphasised.

Anis stated the ruling is final and binding, requiring all political parties to implement it without exception.

NasDem politician Amelia Anggraini viewed the Constitutional Court’s ruling on the 30% female representation quota as a momentum for improving party cadres.