Do Not be Afraid to Report Persecution: Minister

"We appeal to the whole community, if there is violence against women and children, it must be reported to us so that it can be dealt with according to the law. Our country has enacted strict laws to protect women and children," she said after the Declaration of Protection for Women and Children at the Proclamation Monument here on Friday.

She urged all parties not to be afraid to report violent acts to the Integrated Service Centers for Women and Children Empowerment in every sub-district and village, as well as to the police.

Yembise also criticized persecution that is believed to be rampant. If children and women make mistakes or violate the law, they should be prosecuted according to the law. However, a child who is accused must receive special treatment.

She said children, as victims or perpetrators of crimes, should not be exposed to the public, noting that many people currently violate this principle.

She also asked the public not to judge if a child is involved in a crime.

"Indonesia has a juvenile justice system. There is a special treatment if a child becomes a perpetrator of a crime. We also have trained law enforcement officials on ways of dealing with child offenders," she stated.

Parents are also asked to monitor the behaviors of children, to avoid persecution.

"Children sometimes do not understand what they have done and what they are doing. Hence, it is the responsibility of parents to keep an eye on children," she said.

The Ministry of Womens Empowerment and Child Protection has established coordination with womens organizations to disseminate information on violence against women and children.(*)