Gender Bias in AI: Mitigating Strategies

 Zulkhadir Riandi

Feminist Society - Today, the course of life in the era of the 5.0 industrial revolution has brought increasingly heavy digital and technological developments, in which digital and technological advances continue to evolve. One of the connections is with the existence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that continues to advance and evolve throughout all lines of human life. Where today, almost anything in the digital world can be run easily with the help of AI.

On the one hand, AI has a positive impact because it can make it easier for us where AI can generate whatever we order based on clear and specific prompts. But on the other hand, AI actually has a negative side, where AI tends to be gender-biased. For example, AI or other search engine mechanisms tends to generate or deliver results with a majority of men in jobs such as doctors and women in nurses. Another example can be seen when we carry out searches related to everything related to childcare, which is always associated with the mother, as if it were only the role of the mother, whereas childcare is the responsibility of both parents (mother and father).

You can also Read: The Importance of Paternity Leave in Promoting Gender Equality and Family Well-Being

AI systems are biased because they are human creations. Who makes decisions informing AI systems and who is on the team developing AI systems shapes their development. Unsurprisingly, there is a huge gender gap: Only 22 percent of professionals in AI and data science fields are women—and they are more likely to occupy jobs associated with less status. In terms of gender bias from data, data points are snapshots of the world we live in, and the large gender data gaps we see are partly due to the gender digital divide. For example, some 300 million fewer women than men access the Internet on a mobile phone, and women in low- and middle-income countries are 20 percent less likely than men to own a smartphone. These technologies generate data about their users, so the fact that women have less access to them inherently skews datasets. Even when data is generated, humans collecting data decide what to collect and how.

How to Mitigate Gender Bias in AI?

Mitigating gender bias in AI algorithms is crucial for creating fair and equitable systems. Here are some strategies:

1.       Diverse Data Collection

Gathering diverse and representative data during model training will have direct implications in overcoming gender bias in AI. Therefore, we have to ensure that the dataset includes various gender identities, backgrounds, and experiences.

2.       Bias Detection and Audits

Regularly audit AI models for bias. Identify discriminatory patterns and adjust the algorithms accordingly. Tools like fairness metrics and adversarial testing can help. This mechanism is of paramount importance to persistently prevent gender bias in AI systems.

3.       Feature Engineering

Be mindful of features that might introduce bias. Remove or adjust features related to gender, race, or other sensitive attributes. Thereby, the full awareness of the technicians and all parties involved in the creation of AI systems is really needed.

4.       Balanced Representation

Oversample underrepresented groups to balance the dataset. This helps prevent the majority group from dominating the model’s predictions. The more representative of gender participation in creating AI systems is, the better AI systems will be.

5.       Ethical Guidelines

Develop clear guidelines for AI development that address bias. Involve ethicists, social scientists, and affected communities in the process. By making good guidelines for AI creation, it will drive a better procedure that takes into consideration gender equality.

Remember that bias elimination is an ongoing effort. By combining technical solutions with ethical considerations, we can create AI systems that treat everyone fairly.

If you are interested in issues related to gender equality and in-depth discussion about feminism, let's join with Feminist Society. Feminist Society aims to promote progress in gender equality and women’s rights through education and advocacy. To get related articles, please visit the page feminist-society.blogspot.com.

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View more:

Ayesha Nadeem et al. Gender Bias in AI: A Review of Contributing Factors and Mitigating Strategies. AIS Electronic Library. (2020). https://aisel.aisnet.org/acis2020/27/

https://ssir.org/articles/entry/when_good_algorithms_go_sexist_why_and_how_to_advance_ai_gender_equity

https://analyticsindiamag.com/understanding-ai-biases-and-ways-to-fix-them/

 

Forced Marriage: A Violation of Human Rights

Muhammad Emil Hakim Aba

Feminist Society - In societies across the globe, forced marriage remains a deeply entrenched issue that violates fundamental human rights. This practice, which disregards individual autonomy and consent, perpetuates cycles of abuse and suffering. This article explores the complexities of forced marriage, its impact, and the global efforts to combat it.

Understanding Forced Marriage

Forced marriage occurs when one or both parties enter into a marital union without their free and informed consent. Unlike arranged marriages, where families or intermediaries facilitate introductions and both parties willingly participate, forced marriages lack genuine choice. Coercion, threats, emotional manipulation, and physical violence are often used to compel individuals into these unions.

Forced marriage operates along a continuum of coercion. At one end, overt violence and explicit threats force compliance. At the other end, subtle psychological pressure, emotional blackmail, and cultural norms exert influence. Regardless of the method, the absence of true consent defines forced marriage.

Global Prevalence

Forced marriages persist in various cultural contexts worldwide. Regions such as South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East report higher prevalence rates. However, this issue transcends borders, affecting individuals from diverse backgrounds. It is essential to recognize that forced marriage is not limited to any specific religion, ethnicity, or socioeconomic group. In the context of Indonesia, forced marriages are still problematic, based on Article 4 paragraph (1) of Law Number 12 of 2022 concerning Criminal Sexual Violence, forced marriage is one of the forms of criminal sexual violence that cannot be justified. However, the practice still continues where that practice is frequently associated with culture and customs. Therefore, all parties must strive to stop the practice of forced marriages. That is a violation of human rights. In addition, the practice could result so many negative consequences such as loss of autonomy, health risks, education disruption, domestic violence, and many more.

Indonesia as a country based on just and civilized humanity has specifically explained in Article 28B paragraph (2) of the 1945 Constitution which regulates the right to have a family and continue offspring that every child has the right to survival, growth, and development and the right to self-protection from violence and discrimination.  This regulation clearly emphasizes that in order to build commitment and family unity, all forms of discrimination and coercion over individual rights to enter into a marriage bond are not permitted.

In Article 6 paragraph (1) of Marriage Law, implicitly states that marriage must be approved by both parties entering into the marriage without any element of coercion from any party because the purpose of marriage is that the husband and wife can build a lasting and happy family, and fulfill human rights. This means that marriages that take place under any threat are not permitted and are a violation of the law for those who carry them out.  Marriage must be based on the desires, willingness and consent of each party.  Therefore, one party (husband or wife) is allowed to apply for an annulment of the marriage as stipulated in Article 27 paragraph (1) of Marriage Law.

From a global perspective, countries worldwide have taken steps to address forced marriage. In Australia for instance, the government criminalized forced marriage, imposing penalties of up to seven years’ imprisonment. In the United Kingdom, the Anti-social Behavior, Crime and Policing Act 2014 made forced marriage illegal, even if it occurs abroad. Furthermore, there are also Civil Protection Orders to prevent forced marriages which are applied in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Indonesia should follow the example of these countries to stop the practice of forced marriage. So far, there are so many weaknesses in the context of implementation in the field, one of the real instances is the limitations of the Regional Technical Implementation Unit for the Protection of Women and Children (Unit Pelaksana Teknis Daerah Perlindungan Perempuan dan Anak). There are so many cities/regencies in Indonesia that have not formed UPTD PPA yet. In fact, it is an obligation to establish UPTD PPA in every local area as mandated in the Sexual Violence Crime Law.

Conclusion

Forced marriage persists, but collective action can make a difference. By raising awareness, supporting survivors, and implementing legal protections, we move toward a world where every individual’s right to choose their life partner is respected. Let us stand together against this grave violation of human rights.

If you are interested in issues related to gender equality and in-depth discussion about feminism, let's join with Feminist Society. Feminist Society aims to promote progress in gender equality and women’s rights through education and advocacy. To get related articles, please visit the page feminist-society.blogspot.com.

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The 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia.

The Law Number 12 of 2022 concerning Criminal Sexual Violence.

The Law Number 16 of 2019 concerning Amendments to the Law Number 1 of 1974 concerning Marriage.

Rachael Clawson et al. Forced Marriage: Implications for Mental Health and Intellectual Disability Services. Advances in Psychiatric Treatment. Volume 19. Issue 2. (March 2013). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1192/apt.bp.111.009316

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1138699/what_is_forced_marriage_0223.pdf

https://www.api-gbv.org/about-gbv/types-of-gbv/forced-marriage/

https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/forced-marriage

https://www.ag.gov.au/crime/people-smuggling-and-human-trafficking/forced-marriage

https://www.tahirih.org/news/addressing-forced-marriage-at-any-age-requires-comprehensive-solutions/

https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/crime-prevention/crime-types/domestic-abuse/forced-marriage

ARN’s Journey Goes Beyond the Comfort Zone: From A Teenage Who Received Verbal and Physical Bullying to Becoming A Career Woman Who Is the Backbone of the Family

“No matter who you are, how bad your past was, you have the right to have a dream” — Said ARN when interviewed directly by the Feminist Society team through an online meeting on Thursday, 20 June 2024. ARN is a real portrayal that women are not supposed to be underestimated since they also have the same chances in every field as men. Those incredible visions came from her personal experience when she underwent directly discriminatory treatment when she was a child. Coming from a small village in Kalimantan, ARN grew up in an environment where status as a poor woman was regarded as less important, and her rights were frequently done away with. Spending her teenage years in elementary and middle school in Kalimantan, ARN got bullied by her friends just because she was poor. Even they were not only verbal bullying but also physical bullying.

That experience really traumatized her until at one point she did not want to remember that childhood. “Most people probably would consider their childhood was fun and really want to go back if they could, but for me, it is different, I will not, even to recall that one I will not”. It was a bad day for ARN, hence she had to escape from that condition to change her life to be better.

That was the beginning of ARN’s motivation to progress and develop. To make ends meet during school, she worked as a helper at her aunt's restaurant to continue making ends meet. Then after junior high school, ARN intended to leave Kalimantan because she believed that to develop further we had to get out of an unsupportive environment. With her good academic abilities, ARN was finally able to continue her vocational studies in Malang in the field of culinary arts with a scholarship.

While she was in Malang, ARN really wanted to take advantage of all the opportunities available by trying many things. While attending school, ARN became a model and earned side income from there. Because when she was in Malang, ARN studied at a Catholic school which could be said to be very expensive, even though ARN received a scholarship there were still other expenses that ARN had to pay. Finally, apart from being a model, ARN also worked in the hospitality sector to make ends meet. With hard work, ARN was finally able to complete her studies in Malang

After studying vocational school in Malang, ARN then moved to Bali and worked for 2 years in Bali and then moved again to Balikpapan. It could be said that this position was the best point for her, by working in Bali and Balikpapan ARN was able to become financially stable. ARN was finally able to help pay off her parents' debts, help renovate her parents' house, and send her siblings to school until they graduated.

That success is not only achieved easily, many sacrifices have been made, starting from becoming a sales promotion girl for a cigarette brand, becoming a model in a nightclub and many more things have been done to survive to the point of financial success. With the financial stability she had, ARN then saw the opportunity to open a laundry business. After some time, her laundry business finally achieved success and earned a turnover of hundreds of millions.

At this point of success, ARN finally found her passion in the field of communications so she was moved to become a professional waitress who could work on cruise ships and be able to travel around the world and see the beauty of the world out there.

Realizing that to achieve her dream, there are many things that she must fight for and learn, one of which is English itself. At that point, ARN finally started her journey to learn English. In the end, when ARN had acquired English language skills, she finally received paid internship offers in three different places (Jakarta, Bali and Malaysia). Once again, ARN saw a big opportunity if she chose to go to Malaysia because apart from being paid quite well there, she could also prepare herself, especially in English language habits, considering that the English language culture in Malaysia is higher compared to Indonesia.

Now ARN has been running a paid internship program for 3 months in Malaysia and will end next September. After the paid internship process is complete, she will immediately prepare herself for all the subsequent needs and preparations towards her dream of becoming a professional cruise ship waitress who is ready to see the world. ARN's journey is proof that everyone has the right to dream regardless of gender. "Women are not slaves to men, women are equal to men, so don't be afraid to chase our dreams, we are women, we have the right to dream." ARN's voice is a loud voice to voice gender equality, it is a call to all women out there not to be afraid to chase dreams.

In our section with ARN, we finally agreed on several crucial things, where Feminist Society will always support her and we also gave several recommendations to her on what she could do to deal with several challenges forward regarding discriminatory treatment against her rights as a woman.

If you have any case related to gender equality or feminist issues and you need either advocacy assistance, counseling, support for campaign media, or some kind of that, feel free to contact us by this section. All of those things are free, you do not need to pay anything, it is our commitment to promote progress in gender equality and women’s rights through education and advocacy.

You can also contact us on:

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The Importance of Paternity Leave in Promoting Gender Equality and Family Well-Being

Juneidi Coloay

Feminist Society - The issues about paternity leave have been widely discussed in Indonesia since the Draft Law on Maternal and Child Welfare in the First 1000 Days of Life was passed by the House of Representatives on June 4^th, 2024. In this Law, the fathers and families must accompany the mothers during the birthing process, therefore they have paternity leave rights as an effort to ensure the welfare of mothers and children in the first 1000 days and as a form of comprehensive child care between both parents. However, the paternity leave rights in the Law are regarded as suboptimal because the leave rights are more dominant in mothers than fathers. Thereby, it should be examined more deeply by the government with the involvement of all parties in order to be able to place an equality perspective in child care.

Paternity leave is a crucial policy that supports gender equality, strengthens family bonds, and promotes a more balanced division of childcare responsibilities. By allowing fathers to take time off work following the birth or adoption of a child, paternity leave encourages active fatherhood and helps dismantle traditional gender roles that often place the burden of child-rearing solely on mothers.

The benefits of paternity leave extend beyond the immediate family unit. It contributes to closing the gender gap in the workplace by normalizing the idea that both parents are equally responsible for childcare. This shift in perception can lead to more equitable career opportunities for women, as employers become less likely to discriminate based on potential maternity leave.

Moreover, paternity leave has been linked to positive outcomes for children’s development. Fathers who take paternity leave are more involved in their children’s lives, leading to better cognitive and social outcomes. This early involvement can foster stronger father-child relationships that last a lifetime.

Paternity leave is not just a period away from work; it’s an investment in family health, workplace equality, and societal progress. As such, it is essential for governments and employers to support and promote paternity leave policies that reflect the evolving dynamics of modern families.

However, it always faces difficulty these days to promote and normalize paternity leave in every field. There are several challenges that countries often face in implementing paternity leave.

1.       Legal Compliance

Ensuring businesses are ready for changes in paternity leave entitlements and comply with new regulations.

2.       Cultural Shifts

Overcoming traditional gender roles and encouraging fathers to take advantage of paternity leave benefits.

3.       Economic Considerations

Balancing the cost of providing paternity leave with the economic benefits it can bring to families and society.

4.       Workplace Integration

Adapting workplace policies to accommodate flexible paternity leave and support for returning employees.

Those challenges require a concerted effort from governments, employers, and society to create an environment where paternity leave is valued and supported. In addition, public awareness plays a significant role in promoting paternity leave uptake. By raising awareness about the benefits of paternity leave for children’s development, family well-being, and gender equality, society can shift towards more supportive attitudes for fathers taking leave.

Awareness campaigns can help dispel myths and stigmas associated with men taking time off for childcare, encouraging more fathers to take advantage of paternity leave policies. Additionally, public discourse on the topic can influence policy-making, leading to more favorable conditions for paternity leave uptake.

Educational initiatives and media coverage can also highlight successful stories of paternity leave, providing positive role models and demonstrating the practicality and benefits of such policies in real-life scenarios.

If you are interested in issues related to gender equality and in-depth discussion about feminism, let’s join with Feminist Society. Feminist Society aims to promote progress in gender equality and women’s rights through education and advocacy. To get related articles, please visit the page feminist-society.blogspot.com.

You can also contact us on:

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View More:

https://www.lewissilkin.com/en/insights/statutory-paternity-leave-new-rules-from-april

https://www.hr.admin.cam.ac.uk/news/hr-policies-effective-6-april-2024

https://www.personneltoday.com/hr/statutory-paternity-leave-changes-april-2024/

https://www.thehrdirector.com/legal-updates/legal-updates-2024/latest-paternity-leave-regulations/

https://arbor.law/insights/paternity-and-maternity-leave-entitlements-2024/

https://www.hrlab.de/en/hr-lexicon/paternity-leave-2024

https://hrdailyadvisor.blr.com/2024/06/14/paternity-leave-gaining-momentum-in-the-modern-workplace-to-drive-business-performance/

https://www.brabners.com/insights/employment/changes-to-paternity-leave-redundancy-protection-flexible-working-and-carers-leave-explained

https://harperjames.co.uk/article/changes-to-statutory-paternity-leave/

https://appartnership.co.uk/statutory-paternity-leave-changes-2024/

 

The Controversy of Female Genital Mutilations

 Juneidi Coloay

Feminist Society - Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), also known as female genital cutting or female circumcision, is a practice that involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injuries to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. This practice is found in some countries of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, and within their respective diasporas.

As of 2023, it is estimated that over 200 million girls and women in 31 countries, including Indonesia, Iraq, Yemen, and 27 African countries, have been subjected to one or more types of FGM. The procedure is typically carried out by a traditional circumciser using a blade, from days after birth to puberty and beyond. In half of the countries for which national statistics are available, most girls are cut before the age of five.

FGM is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women. It reflects deep-rooted inequality between the sexes and constitutes an extreme form of discrimination against girls and women. The practice also violates a person’s rights to health, security, and physical integrity; the right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment; and the right to life, in instances when the procedure results in death. In the context of Indonesia, those rights are guaranteed in various legal regulations such as the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia, the Human Rights Law, the Child Protection Law, and even the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) that Indonesia has been ratifying.

The World Health Organization (WHO) strongly urges healthcare providers not to perform FGM. Treatment of the health complications of FGM is estimated to cost health systems US$ 1.4 billion per year, a number expected to rise unless urgent action is taken towards its abandonment.

FGM is classified into 4 major types:

1.       Partial or total removal of the clitoral glans (the external and visible part of the clitoris) and/or the prepuce/clitoral hood.

2.       Partial or total removal of the clitoral glans and the labia minora (the inner folds of the vulva), with or without removal of the labia majora (the outer folds of skin of the vulva).

3.       Known as infibulation, this is the narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal. The seal is formed by cutting and repositioning the labia minora, or labia majora, sometimes through stitching, with or without removal of the clitoral prepuce/clitoral hood and glans.

4.       This includes all other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, for instance pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, and cauterizing the genital area.

In Indonesia, FGM is problematic and it has also become a debatable practice. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a complex issue with various reasons behind its practice, often deeply rooted in the cultural, social, and traditional norms of the societies where it is practiced. Here are some of the most frequently cited reasons:

Social Acceptance

FGM is often seen as a rite of passage into womanhood and is widely practiced to gain social acceptance. Families who don’t participate face ostracism and their daughters may be considered ineligible for marriage.

Religion

Although FGM is not endorsed by Islam or Christianity, religious texts are commonly deployed to justify it. It is one of the misconceptions that people believe to apply the FGM’s practices in the status quo.

Beauty and Cleanliness

Some cultures consider the female genitalia to be dirty and ugly and believe that they should be cut to appear clean and beautiful. This misunderstanding is also common to be found in almost FGM’s practices.

It’s important to note that these reasons are based on deep-seated gender inequalities and misconceptions, and the practice of FGM has been internationally recognized as a violation of human rights. Efforts are ongoing globally to educate communities about the harmful effects of FGM and to eradicate the practice.

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) can have severe long-term health consequences affecting women’s physical, mental, and sexual health. The most common long-term health risks associated with FGM would be pain, infections, impaired wound healing, sexual health problems, urination problems, mental health problems, obstetric complications, and infertility.

It is important to note that all forms of FGM are associated with increased health risks in the short- and long-term. The World Health Organization (WHO) strongly urges healthcare providers not to perform FGM.

If you are interested in issues related to gender equality and in-depth discussion about feminism, let’s join with Feminist Society. Feminist Society aims to promote progress in gender equality and women’s rights through education and advocacy. To get related articles, please visit the page feminist-society.blogspot.com.

You can also contact us on:

Instagram            : @feministsociety.id

Email                     : fem.official7@gmail.com

View More:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/female-genital-mutilation

https://www.unicef.org/protection/female-genital-mutilation

https://www.unfpa.org/female-genital-mutilation

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-47131052

https://www.wvi.org/stories/facts-history-faqs-what-you-need-know-about-fgm

https://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/faqs/female-genital-mutilation

https://www.worldvision.org/child-protection-news-stories/female-genital-mutilation-fgm-facts

 

Gender Perspectives in Public Facilities Play An Important Role in Supporting Gender Equality

 Juneidi Coloay

Feminist Society – In the quest for gender equality, one aspect that often gets overlooked is the design and management of public facilities. A gender perspective in public facilities is not just about providing separate restrooms or changing rooms for different genders. It is about understanding and addressing the unique needs and experiences of all genders in the use of these facilities. Thereby, gender perspectives in public facilities come into play in supporting gender equality.

Understanding Gender Perspective

A gender perspective involves recognizing that men, women, and non-binary individuals may have different needs and experiences when it comes to public facilities. This could be due to biological differences, societal norms, or personal preferences. For instance, women may require sanitary bins in restrooms, parents may need changing tables for babies, and individuals with disabilities may need facilities that are accessible and easy to use.

Why is it Important?

Incorporating a gender perspective in public facilities is crucial for several reasons:

1.       Promotes Equality and Inclusion

By considering the unique needs of all genders, we can ensure that everyone has equal access to and can equally benefit from public facilities. If we take it into the Indonesian context, this also means that we have been running equality before the law principle that is enshrined in the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia. This is a fundamental aspect of social inclusion and gender equality.

2.       Enhances Safety and Comfort

Gender-sensitive facilities can enhance the safety and comfort of users. When there are special public facilities that are provided for specific purposes based on gender considerations, it can make people feel secure and comfortable. For example, well-lit and regularly maintained restrooms can help reduce the risk of harassment or violence.

3.       Reflects Diversity and Respect

A gender perspective in public facilities sends a powerful message that our society recognizes and respects diversity. It shows that we care about the needs and experiences of all members of our community.

In essence, according to the aforementioned reasons, incorporating a gender perspective in the design and management of public facilities is not just a matter of fairness or equality. It’s about creating spaces that are safe, comfortable, and accessible for everyone. As we continue to strive for gender equality, let’s not forget the important role that our public facilities play in this endeavor.

Remember, equality is not just about treating everyone the same; it’s about acknowledging our differences and ensuring that these differences do not become barriers to access and opportunity.

What Factors Should We Consider to Encourage Gender Perspective in Public Spaces?

Encouraging public spaces to adopt a gender perspective can be achieved through several strategies:

1.       Awareness and Education

The first step is to raise awareness about the importance of a gender perspective in public facilities. This could be done through campaigns, workshops, and seminars that highlight the benefits of gender-sensitive design. This also could be done by utilizing a digital platform to educate, advocate, socialize, and speak out loud regarding the importance of gender perspective in public facilities. Moreover, in today’s digital era, there are so many digital platforms that focus on gender equality issues. Feminist Society is one of the examples.

2.       Policy and Legislation

Governments can play a crucial role by implementing policies and regulations that mandate the consideration of gender perspectives in the design and management of public facilities. In Indonesia, the urban planning policies are relied on respective local governments. However, the problem is that Indonesia is an archipelago state where there are so many disparities among the cities. Therefore, we should strive to create development balance in every city.

3.       Funding and Resources

Provide funding and resources for the implementation of gender-sensitive designs in public facilities. This could be in the form of grants, incentives, or technical assistance.

4.       Partnerships

Collaborate with NGOs, community organizations, and private sector companies that are committed to promoting gender equality. These partnerships can help amplify efforts and reach a wider audience.

Remember, change often takes time and persistence. But with concerted effort and commitment, we can create public spaces that are inclusive, safe, and accessible for everyone.

If you are interested in issues related to gender equality and in-depth discussion about feminism, let’s join with Feminist Society. Feminist Society aims to promote progress in three key aspects of gender equality and women’s rights activism: Law, Policy, and Advocacy through the provision of digital-based information. To get related articles, please visit the page feminist-society.blogspot.com.

You can also contact us on:

Instagram            : @feministsociety.id

Email                     : fem.official7@gmail.com

View More:

Samuel Dubin., et al. Public Restrooms in Neighborhoods and Public Spaces: a Qualitative Study of Transgender and Nonbinary Adults in New York City. Sexuality Research and Social Policy. Volume 18. Number 3. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-020-00504-3.

Miaojing Wei. Boundaries of Transgender Access to Public Facilities in the United States. International Journal of Frontiers in Sociology. Volume 5. Number 1. DOI: https://doi.org/10.25236/IJFS.2023.050113.

Michelle Amri. Equity and gender mainstreaming in public policy: A scoping review protocol. PLOS One. Volume 19. Number 2. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0299124.

https://items.ssrc.org/just-environments/public-spaces-private-acts-toilets-and-gender-equality/

https://socialprotection-humanrights.org/framework/principles/gender-perspective/

 

Femicide Has Been Increasing in Indonesia, How Can We Deal With It?

Juneidi Coloay

Feminist Society – Recently, the many murder cases that have occurred in Indonesia have become a hot topic of conversation on social media. Moreover, the murder cases that occurred apparently involved women as victims. This condition is generally known as "Femicide".

Definition of Femicide

Nowadays, femicide has become an important global indicator of gender inequality and violence. Femicide is generally understood as a condition that involves the intentional murder of women due to power relations, but broader definitions of femicide include any killing of women or girls.

Current Cases

Femicide has been increasing and booming in Indonesian media portrayals in recent times. Where there have been several cases of femicide that have caused quite a stir in cyberspace:

1.       On Thursday 25 April 2024, the murder of a woman committed by her co-worker accompanied by the dumping of the victim's body in a suitcase was found on Inspeksi Kalimalang Street, Sukadanu Village, West Cikarang District, Bekasi Regency, West Java.

2.       On Friday 3 May 2024, a murder was committed by a husband against his wife, in Temboan Village, Maesaan District, South Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi.

3.       On Friday 3 May 2024, a woman from Bogor was killed by her male partner in the Kuta area, Badung Regency, Bali. The perpetrator killed the victim because he was emotionally asked to pay more for a commercial dating service.

4.       On Friday 3 May 2024, the sadistic murder of a woman occurred in Ciamis Regency, West Java. The victim was killed and mutilated by her own husband.

Legal Framework

According to Vienna Convention in 2012, femicide can take the form of, inter alia: (1) the murder of women as a result of intimate partner violence; (2) the torture and misogynist slaying of women; (3) killing of women and girls in the name of “honor”; (4) targeted killing of women and girls in the context of armed conflict; (5) dowry-related killings of women; (6) killing of women and girls because of their sexual orientation and gender identity; (7) the killing of aboriginal and indigenous women and girls due to their gender; (8) female infanticide and gender-based sex selection foeticide; (9) genital mutilation related deaths; (10) accusations of witchcraft; and (11) other femicides connected with gangs, organized crime, drug dealers, human trafficking and the proliferation of small arms.

The reasons why femicide happens are diverse, however the main factor is due to power relations between men and women. Thereby women’s rights are highly vulnerable to being neglected. The Indonesian laws have actually regulated diverse kind of legal actions to protect women from femicide phenomenon. Nonetheless, femicide is still hard to tackle as it has been growing in Indonesia at the end of the day.

What Should We Do?

Although we have strong and comprehensive regulations to protect women, but those are not enough to stop femicide cases. Therefore, there should be progressive steps by the government to overcome the femicide phenomenon in Indonesia.

1.       The Importance of Good Relationship

Women empowerment comes into play in building good relationships and avoiding toxic relationships either inside or outside the family circle. Women’s awareness of those things can help them to avoid acts of domestic violence, abuse by family members, as well as crimes in romantic relationships.

2.       Supportive Public Policy

There should be supportive public policy for women, as simple as public facilities which are special for women, children, pregnant, and those with disabilities. It could be like special train carriage, special bus station and so on. It could prevent and protect women from sexual harassment and multiple forms of sexual violence in public spaces.

3.       Active Role of External Parties

There needs to be an active role from related parties like making efforts to involve the mass media and public campaigns, providing psychological assistance, legal advice and support, as well as active and massive role from the police and other legal apparatus.

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View More:

https://itsagirlmovie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Vienna_Declaration_on_Femicide.pdf

https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-08398-8_2