Woman laws at Indonesia

04 May 2025 --
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Indonesia has made significant strides in advancing women's rights and addressing gender-based violence through legislative reforms and policy initiatives. Here's an overview of the key legal frameworks and ongoing challenges:

Legal Framework for Women's Rights in Indonesia

1. **Law No. 12 of 2022 on Sexual Violence Crimes (TPKS Law)*

Passed in April 2022, this landmark legislation criminalizes 19 forms of sexual violence, including rape, forced marriage, sexual exploitation, and online gender-based violenc. It mandates victim compensation, counseling services, and specialized training for law enforcement personne. The law also establishes a Victim Trust Fund to support survivors when perpetrators lack financial resource.

2. **Implementation of CEDAW Commitments*

Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW. In 2024, the government highlighted its efforts to align national policies with CEDAW recommendations, including integrating gender equality into the National Action Plan for Human Rights (RANHAM) and addressing discriminatory policies through inter-ministerial coordinatio.

3. **Domestic Workers Protection Bill*

Despite being a legislative priority since 2004, the bill aimed at protecting domestic workers from abuse and discrimination has faced repeated delay. In 2023, domestic workers and activists initiated hunger strikes across multiple cities to demand the passage of the bill, which promises critical safeguards such as minimum wage, rest days, and severe penalties for violence against worker.

⚖️ Ongoing Challenges and Advocacy

Cultural Norms and Victim Blaming Deep-seated cultural norms often lead to victim-blaming, where families may opt for informal resolutions, such as forced marriages, instead of legal proceeding. This practice has historically hindered the reporting and prosecution of sexual violence case.

Implementation Gaps While the TPKS Law provides a comprehensive legal framework, its effectiveness depends on the timely enactment of derivative regulations and the training of law enforcement officials to handle cases with a victim-centered approac. Civil society organizations continue to monitor and advocate for the proper implementation of these provision

Gender-Based Violence in the Workplace In March 2025, a historic Gender Justice Agreement was established in Central Java's garment industry, providing protections against gender-based violence and harassment for over 6,000 worker. This legally binding agreement sets a precedent for labor rights in Indonesia's manufacturing secto.Indonesia's progress in women's rights is marked by significant legal reforms and active civil society engagemen. However, challenges remain in ensuring the effective implementation of these laws and addressing cultural practices that undermine women's right. Ongoing advocacy and vigilance are essential to achieving lasting change.