MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, SURAKARTA — Violence against women, children, and persons with difabilities remains a serious issue, occurring not only in domestic settings but also in public and digital spaces.
This concern was emphasized during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (16 Hari Anti Kekerasan terhadap Perempuan/16 HAKTP) campaign organized by the Legal Aid Institute (LBH) of the Law and Human Rights Council of the Central Java Provincial Board of ‘Aisyiyah, in collaboration with the ‘Aisyiyah INKLUSI Program, on Sunday (21/12) at Loji Gandrung, Surakarta.
Coinciding with International Day of Persons with Difabilities and ahead of Mother’s Day, the campaign carried the theme “From Private to Public Spaces: Building a Culture Free from Violence and Ensuring Safety for All.”
Secretary General of the Central Board of ‘Aisyiyah and Coordinator of the ‘Aisyiyah INKLUSI Program, Tri Hastuti, noted that although cases have slightly decreased, violence against women remains alarmingly high, particularly domestic violence and digital-based violence. She stressed that violence can occur anywhere, making comprehensive prevention efforts essential, spanning homes, public areas, and digital platforms.
On this occasion, Tri also underscored the importance of inclusive and equitable development for persons with difabilities, while framing Mother’s Day as a moment to reaffirm the strategic role of women in national development.
Meanwhile, Chairperson of the LBH of the Central Java Provincial Board of ‘Aisyiyah, Siti Kasiyati, stated that the presence of LBH ‘Aisyiyah represents a concrete form of protection for vulnerable groups through integrated legal services that are easily accessible to the public. These services include legal, psychological, spiritual, and health assistance, strengthened by paralegal training and expanded service accreditation.
Deputy Mayor of Surakarta, Astrid Widayani, expressed her appreciation for ‘Aisyiyah’s consistent role in advocacy, education, and legal assistance for women and vulnerable communities. According to her, preventing violence cannot rely solely on law enforcement; it also requires behavioral change and the courage of the public to speak out.
Through the 16 HAKTP campaign, ‘Aisyiyah reaffirmed its commitment to continuously providing services, advocacy, and education to create safe, inclusive and violence-free living spaces for all. (Suri) (Translated by Bintang Adrian)
