The Embassy of France and the Institut français d’Indonésie (IFI) are taking a stand against gender-based violence through a dynamic campaign as part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence from November 25 to December 10, 2024. By collaborating with prominent Indonesian organizations such as Yayasan Pulih, Aliansi Laki-laki Baru, Jakarta Feminist, and Kumparan Woman, IFI underscores France's feminist diplomacy, advocating for gender equality on an international scale.

Empowering Conversations: “Abuse is Not Love”
Central to this campaign is a series of impactful seminars under the theme "Abuse is Not Love," held at partner universities across Indonesia. These sessions, led by experts from Yayasan Pulih and Jakarta Feminist, aim to equip students and young adults with tools to identify and break free from toxic relationships.

“Through this seminar, we aim to foster awareness and empower individuals to address gender-based violence. It’s about providing tools for young people to recognize and reject abuse, ensuring their safety and dignity,” explained Livia Iskandar, a representative of Yayasan Pulih.

Taking the Message to the Streets on Car Free Day
On December 8, 2024, IFI brings the campaign to the heart of Jakarta during Car Free Day. This interactive event, located at Jalan MH Thamrin No. 20 from 6 a.m. to noon, blends education with engagement. Activities include:

Interactive games and educational sessions designed for families and youth
Workshops by Yayasan Pulih focusing on recognizing physical and verbal abuse
Discussions led by Jakarta Feminist and Aliansi Laki-laki Baru, emphasizing the critical role of men in combating violence against women
Nur Hasyim of Aliansi Laki-laki Baru highlighted the importance of male engagement:
“Male violence against women dehumanizes not only women but men as well. Men must reclaim their humanity by actively joining efforts to end this cycle of violence.”

A United Call for Change
The campaign highlights the shared responsibility of communities, organizations, and individuals in addressing gender-based violence. Jules Irrmann, Counsellor for Cooperation and Culture at the French Embassy in Jakarta and Director of IFI, emphasized:
“The fight for the rights of women and girls is a global priority for France. We are deeply grateful for our partners in Indonesia who share this commitment to education, solidarity, and inclusion.”

Jakarta Feminist’s Advocacy Manager, Naila Rizqi Zakiah, added:
“Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue—it affects us all. Through this collaboration, we hope to amplify awareness and inspire action to address this pervasive issue.”

Join the Movement
This December, be part of a transformative journey. Participate in the Car Free Day event on December 8 and join seminars on November 29, December 3, 5, and 10 at select universities. Let’s stand together to #StopTheViolence and achieve #NoExcuse for abuse.

For more information about the campaign, visit IFI’s website and follow the hashtags:
#16DaysofActivism, #NoExcuse, #StopTheViolence.