Preventing online gender-based violence, Arifah calls for responsive cyber security

Jakarta — Indonesia’s Minister of Women Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) Arifah Fauzi has emphasised the importance of a concrete and responsive cyber security system to prevent online gender-based violence.

“Regulation is an initial shield. We need solutions to address violence in digital spaces. This is where the Shecure Digital Initiative becomes relevant and strategic. The collaboration between UNFPA and ITSEC Asia presents a comprehensive approach: education, technical protection, and advocacy for norm change,” said Minister Arifah Fauzi in a statement in Jakarta on Monday.

She made these remarks during the launch of the Shecure Digital Initiative (SDI), an initiative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) together with ITSEC Asia.

Fauzi stated that online gender-based violence (OGBV) is no longer merely a virtual issue with virtual consequences.

“OGBV damages reputation, destroys mental health, disrupts education, and even threatens physical safety. This is where the state’s responsibility lies — not reactive, but preventive and systematic,” said Minister Arifah Fauzi.

According to her, systematic efforts to prevent online gender-based violence have been built through comprehensive legal and policy foundations.

“When women and children feel unsafe and choose to withdraw from digital spaces, Indonesia is actually losing enormous potential. From losing their voices in public spaces, to contributions to economic growth, to the creativity and innovation of young generations,” said Minister Arifah Fauzi.

Therefore, ensuring a safe digital space is a shared responsibility that cannot be delayed, she emphasised.