Riots' victims

Riots' victims

The May riots have left many victims, including rape victims.
Although thorough investigation into the riots is being conducted
by the authorities, several organizations and institutions have
started working to help these victims.

But to my surprise, this help and effort is not coming from
the government. It is non-governmental humanitarian institutions
and women's organizations that have been making some efforts to
address the issue. I haven't heard of any actions taken by the
state minister of women's affairs to investigate the victimized
women. The minister did not even condemn the sexual violations.

The existence of a state minister of women's affairs in
Indonesia is unique. We may not find such a ministry in other
countries. This shows that the government has great concern in
solving women's problems. Actually the rape victims need long-
term help to recover and to live useful and dignified lives.

VENITA

Jakarta