Women and children

Women and children

From Media Indonesia

The multidimensional crisis coupled with the conflicts prevailing among the political elite and the seemingly unsuccessful effort for reconciliation among the power holders have apparently caused prolonged suffering to the people, and in this context, it is women and children who suffer the most.

In the midst of such a chaotic situation, two different views have come to the forefront. One view is from the group who aspires for the convening of a special session of the People's Consultative Assembly through the issuance of memorandum of censure by the factions in the House of Representatives; and the other aspires for an accelerated general election, with the president being elected directly by the people.

To accommodate the conflicting ideas, a middle way should be sought through the empowerment of gender, solely because the majority of the population consists of women, who have so far been marginalized. It would be much fairer if women were included in decision-making. We would suggest certain subjects, such as human rights, democracy and the environment, be the main topics. Viewpoints, such as ways to find a common perception on such matters as disintegration, equality in the responsibility for defense and security affairs between civilians and military personnel, would determine the right vision of the nation in the future.

Crises of leadership and confidence in political parties cannot be resolved solely by political parties themselves. But a third, independent party, one that would voice the aspirations of the people, is badly needed in order to give more objective input in addressing the nation's problems. It should be noted that the people's decision holds the highest authority and is therefore highly likely to be able to overcome the conflicts gripping the political elite and the executive power.

RA BERAR FATHIA

Head of Women's Alliance

and National Partnership

Bekasi, West Java