Indonesia stresses listening to children in policy creation

Indonesia's Deputy Minister for Women Empowerment and Child Protection, Veronica Tan, has emphasized the critical need to incorporate children's voices into the development of policies and programs designed for their protection. She believes that direct engagement with children is essential for crafting effective measures that align with their real-world needs and aspirations.

"We want to hear directly from the children. No child should be left behind, as every child has the right to benefit from development," Tan stated during a 'Jelajah SAPA' event in East Jakarta. The program, which translates to 'Visit, Invite, Monitor, and Appreciate,' serves as a platform for direct dialogue between the government and children.

During the event, Tan engaged with approximately 90 children, discussing their access to education, play areas, and child protection services in their neighborhoods. She also encouraged the children to practice respectful communication with adults, share their daily activities, express their dreams, and provide feedback for the government.

'Jelajah SAPA' is part of the commemoration of the 42nd National Children's Day. The program aims to gather children's aspirations, monitor the fulfillment of their rights, and ensure their protection across various regions. Tan highlighted that such activities also allow the government to observe the conditions of child protection services firsthand and strengthen coordination with local governments and stakeholders.

Tan urged all parties to enhance collaboration through the National Movement for a Safe and Comfortable Environment for Children (Gernas RANA). This initiative seeks to foster synergy among government, community, businesses, media, families, and other stakeholders to create environments that are safe, comfortable, friendly, and inclusive for children. She called for continuous efforts to establish environments free from violence, exploitation, discrimination, and neglect, ensuring every child has an equal opportunity to grow, learn, play, and pursue their dreams. "Child protection is not just the government's duty, but the responsibility of all elements of society," Veronica added.