A peaceful action involving the distribution of leaflets and release of balloons marked the commemoration of International Women’s Day in the city of Banda Aceh on Monday March 8.

Palu – March 8 is International Women’s Day, which is commemorated throughout the world. In the Central Sulawesi city of Palu, scores of women from the Lembah Palu Women’s Union (SPLP) held a peaceful action on Monday evening in which they brought torches and banners opposing the oppression of women and children.

Isma Savitri, Jakarta – Hundreds of women demonstrated at the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle on Monday March 8 to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Medan – The commemoration of International Women’s Day in Medan, North Sumatra, was marked by a protest action at the Regional House of Representatives building by hundreds of women workers who said they were victims of discrimination by their employers.

Jakarta – International Women’s Day, which falls on March 8, was commemorated by around 100 women activists with a protest action in Central Jakarta.

Bandung – In greeting International Women’s Day, on Monday March 8 scores of students from the People’s Struggle Front (FPR) demonstrated in front of the Gedung Sate building in Bandung, West Java.

Bagus Kurniawan, Yogyakarta – Scores of women activists in the East Java city of Yogyakarta commemorated International Women’s Day on Monday March 8 by calling for equality and freedom for Indonesian women.

Women are not just housewives. They are not second class citizens.

Umi Kulsum and Ignatius Kristanto – Two months have passed, but like an engine, they have also yet to “warm up”. Yet, their numbers have increased significantly compared with the previous period. What’s going on?

“... although legislation represents an important start, its role cannot be more than just a beginning.