On Human Rights Day, the United Nations (UN) and the French Institute of Indonesia (IFI) hosted the "UNiTE: Music Concert and Art Show to End Violence against Women" at MBloc, Jakarta, today. The event signifies the culmination of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, aimed at mobilizing actions for a future free from violence for women and girls.

The "UNiTE" event was organized in collaboration with the Embassy of France, IFI, UN Women in Indonesia, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), working together with the Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan), and the Pulih Foundation.

This music and arts festival aimed to raise awareness, especially among young people, to speak out against violence towards women and girls. It also sought to strengthen solidarity with victims and survivors of violence, as well as promote collaborative efforts to address this issue.

In her keynote address, Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Bintang Puspayoga, emphasized the importance of investing in the protection of women's and girls' rights to a violence-free future. "This campaign is not just a commemoration but a call to collectively end all forms of violence against women and girls in all layers of society."

Jamshed M. Kazi, UN Women Representative and Liaison to ASEAN, highlighted the significance of the event in emphasizing the message that there is no excuse for gender-based violence. "Violence against women must and can be prevented unless we choose to remain silent. Changing dangerous social norms and promoting zero tolerance for violence against women are crucial steps toward a safer world for everyone," he stated.

According to WHO data, one in three women and girls globally experiences violence at least once in their lives, underscoring the need for sustained action. Further research by UNODC and UN Women reveals that 55% of all murders of women are committed by family members or intimate partners, a staggering fact underscoring the urgency of the issue.

In Indonesia, reported cases of violence against women have seen a dramatic increase, rising from 216,156 in 2012 to 457,895 in 2022. Chairwoman of Komnas Perempuan, Andy Yentriyani, said, "The increase in reporting may indicate a rise in confidence and access for victims to report. Therefore, let's not waste the trust of the victims. Let us work together to ensure victims can enjoy their rights and make the experience of victims a learning opportunity to strengthen efforts to prevent similar incidents from recurring."

The event featured musical performances by Danilla Riyadi and Hippotopia. Additionally, this year's UNiTE event opened registration for the "Open Stage," inviting students interested in gender equality issues to submit videos of musical and artistic performances promoting the elimination of violence against women and girls as well as empowerment. Out of more than 30 applicants, five performers from universities in Jakarta, Jayapura, Mataram, and Surabaya were selected to showcase their music, poetry, dance, and theater performances, demonstrating their artistic skills while advocating for social change.

"Music and art are powerful mediums, and their messages to eradicate violence are impactful," said Danila Riyadi.

The UN in Indonesia continues to build strong partnerships with government institutions, the private sector, civil society organizations, and influencers to promote zero tolerance for violence against women. The participation of Ayu Saraswati, UNFPA Champion, emphasizes the need for sustained advocacy efforts for this cause.

"We must end the permissive culture that normalizes violence against women. Each of us plays a crucial role in eliminating violence against women. We must continue to drive change at all levels," said UNFPA Champion Ayu Saraswati.

Jules Irrmann, Counselor for Cooperation & Culture at the French Embassy/Director of IFI, highlighted the collective collaboration to stop violence against women. "This is a priority for France; this is a global issue, this is our struggle. We must act together: say no to all forms of violence, stop the normalization of violence, and break the silence. We must speak up and support victims."