In commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, Yayasan IPAS Indonesia, together with the Maluku Women’s Network, initiated a dialogue and action forum through a seminar and the signing of a multi-stakeholder commitment held in Ambon on March 7, 2026. This activity serves as a concrete step to strengthen cross-sector synergy in addressing GBSV in Maluku.
Discussions in this forum highlighted the practice of resolving violence cases through customary mediation mechanisms (living law), which still frequently occurs, especially in cases of sexual violence. Referring to Law No. 12 of 2022 concerning Sexual Violence Crimes, the resolution of sexual violence crimes is no longer permitted through mediation, as it has the potential to disregard victims’ rights and the process of justice.
Nevertheless, the recognition of customary law in the resolution of criminal acts is also regulated in Article 2 of the Criminal Code Law No. 1 of 2023, concerning the applicability of living law or law that lives within society. The hope for this forum is that the implementation of laws will not overlap and will prioritize the interests of victims.
As a form of shared seriousness, this event concluded with the Signing of a Joint Commitment to demonstrate solidarity with women and children who are victims of violence. The commitment was signed by the Maluku Regional Police Chief, the Maluku Provincial Government represented by the Regional Secretary, the Head of the Maluku High Prosecutor’s Office, as well as representatives of traditional leaders and interfaith religious leaders, ranging from the Maluku Latupati Council, MUI Maluku, GPM Synod, Amboina Diocese, to Hindu and Buddhist religious organizations in Maluku.
The involvement of these stakeholders underscores an important message: the protection of victims of violence is a shared responsibility.
For Ablis Katitahena, an indigenous woman from Seram Island, this activity provided a space that has rarely been available—a space where the voices of indigenous women are heard.
“This is not just a seminar, but a space for sharing and empowerment. When many parties sit together and commit, it gives hope that justice for women and children, especially Maluku women, can truly be realized,” she stated.
She added that the joint commitment to safeguard the rights of women and children, including indigenous women, is a significant step forward in the long struggle for justice.
From the perspective of law enforcement officials, Police Brigadier Nadia Nindisa, a non-commissioned officer from the Maluku Police Criminal Investigation Unit, believes this activity strengthens understanding of the importance of laws in protecting victims of violence.
“The law on sexual violence crimes greatly assists women and children in facing various forms of violence. Customary law does not automatically nullify criminal acts,” she explained.
She concluded by emphasizing the significance of International Women’s Day as a reminder of the state’s presence.
“Women are present in various roles—as workers, homemakers, and members of society. The state must be present and ready to protect women and children,” Nadia concluded.
Through this momentum, Yayasan IPAS Indonesia reaffirms its commitment to continuously encourage multi-stakeholder collaboration and ensure that GBSV handling in Maluku is victim-centered, legally based, and just, so that no woman is left to struggle alone.