Catalog

Ending Violence Against Women
ADB Review [ January - February 2004 ]

By Cathy Reyes-Angus (creyesangus@adb.org)
Assistant Web Administrator

Nani Zulminarni PPSW Chair Indonesia

Violence against women is not just a human rights violation. It is also a serious public health problem. It can take the form of psychological, physical, or sexual abuse, and can have serious implications for a woman’s health. What is not commonly recognized is that violence against women has both economic and social costs to individuals, families, and communities. Nani Zulminarni, Chair of Indonesia’s Pusat Pengembangan Sumberdaya Wanita (PPSW) (Center for Women’s Resources Development in Indonesia), struggles on with her mission.

What is PPSW’s mission?

Women’s empowerment. Our mission is to contribute to the process of building a more democratic and egalitarian society. PPSW, established in 1986, aims to end violence against women by conducting training, producing campaigns on the issues, and increasing involvement in antiviolence movements.

What is your biggest challenge as a gender and development advocate?

Dealing with the whole system of society, including cultural and religious interpretations, and value and power sharing issues.

What do you think are today’s most compelling gender issues?

Women as decision makers and leaders, and women’s access to education.

What is the extent of violence against women in Indonesia?

There are no exact figures as most violence committed is not reported. Domestic violence is still considered a private issue and rarely reported. State violence is not even seen as a violence issue. For many women, violence against them is still a normal part of everyday life.

Why is it considered normal?

Because people are not aware that it is violence. Most believe that women can be violated because they have a lower status in society compared with men. Women are not leaders or decision makers, so they have no control over their own body.

How can ADB assist in the struggle to fight violence against women in Indonesia?

ADB can assist us by facilitating networks, educating women on the issue through policy advocacy, information dissemination, antiviolence campaigns, and capacity building.

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