Dari Semangat Menjadi Aksi: Perjuangan Yuni Arsiyanti untuk Perempuan dan Kesetaraan Gender

For Australia Awards alumna Yuni Arsiyanti, the pursuit of gender equality and the eradication of violence against women is not only a professional matter, but also deeply personal.

As a Commissioner at the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan), Yuni plays a key role in advancing women’s rights and driving efforts to eliminate gender-based violence across Indonesia.

From her own lived experience, she knows the importance of speaking up about violence against women wherever it occurs.

‘Violence against women has never been just a private matter,’ Yuni says. ‘Each story I’ve encountered reveals something deeper about how inequality is woven into our systems, our culture, even our everyday language. Real change begins when we dare to question that and transform the way we value women’s lives and dignity.’

Early Awareness of Gender and Power

Growing up, Yuni witnessed a paradox that shaped her understanding of gender and power. Her father, whose temper often created tension at home, also encouraged his children to be independent, pursue education and follow their dreams, regardless of their gender.

This contradiction left a strong impression on her. It revealed the double standards that existed within her own household, and the way her father’s harsh treatment of her mother was able to continue because it was met with silence.

‘I later discovered that violence against women exists at all levels of society, not only within my family,’ said Yuni.

This early experience would influence Yuni’s future career. Her long-standing drive to end violence against women has included more than a decade of service to Komnas Perempuan. Since 2010, she has worked to advance the rights of women migrant workers, including advocacy against the death penalty. She has provided support, policy input, and guidance to women and their families.

Finding New Strategies Through Study

After eight years of working with such complex and emotionally demanding cases, Yuni became aware that it was taking a toll on her wellbeing. She sought professional support and realised the importance of taking a break to regain balance and perspective.

With the support of Australia Awards, Yuni pursued her Masters of Development Studies at The University of Melbourne. It was an experience that enriched her knowledge and connected her with a diverse network of peers, mentors and practitioners.

‘I’m grateful for the opportunity to have earned my master’s degree in Australia. The knowledge I gained was practical, yet it also broadened my horizons in terms of analytical skills and perspective,’ she recalled.

Through engaging coursework and collaborative projects, she developed a deeper appreciation for how policy, culture and social structures intersect in addressing gender-based issues.

‘After studying in Australia, I gained a deeper understanding of why achieving gender equality is such a challenging endeavour. My perspective and analytical skills have sharpened, enabling me to take a more comprehensive view of specific issues,’ she said.

Yuni’s study experience allowed her to step back from day-to-day fieldwork, reflect on broader patterns, and develop strategic approaches to policy and advocacy.

Standing Together on a Common Challenge

During her studies in Australia, Yuni discovered that gender inequality and violence against women were also a big challenge there. The key difference, she noted, was how the Australian legal system and public services responded.

‘For instance, they have a stronger legal system, structured government processes and supportive officers who assist in reporting and supporting victims,’ Yuni explained.

‘Public education and awareness are also more advanced compared to what we have in Indonesia. Similar initiatives have been implemented here as well, so there is an opportunity for mutual learning between Indonesia and Australia,’ she added.

Yuni gained these insights through classroom discussions with her professors and peers. To deepen her understanding, she attended conferences, connected with local organisations working on gender issues, and joined public demonstrations advocating for policy reform.

Returning with Renewed Purpose

After completing her studies, Yuni joined the UN Women Indonesia, expanding her advocacy to the international stage. Around the same time, she collaborated with one of her former classmates to launch a campaign advocating for the abolition of the death penalty for women and providing ongoing support for affected individuals. The initiative continues to progress and raise awareness today.

In 2025, Yuni was elected as a Commissioner at Komnas Perempuan for the 2025–2030 term. Returning to the Commission with broader insight and renewed energy, she now leads national advocacy for a safer, more just environment that protects and upholds women’s human rights, while working to eliminate all forms of gender-based violence.

Her passion and commitment to advancing gender equality remain steadfast. From 2001 to 2024, more than 2.7 million cases of violence against women were reported to Komnas Perempuan. It’s a stark reminder of how widespread and persistent gender-based violence remains in Indonesia.

With decades of experience in advocacy, research and international collaboration, Yuni now plays a key role in shaping national discourse and policy on women’s human rights. Her leadership reflects both strategic understanding and deep empathy for those affected by violence.

‘I will never forget the words of one of my lecturers who said that my work contributes to building a more equitable society,’ Yuni shared. ‘That constant reminder motivates me to keep striving, to grow, and to make an even greater impact in the future.’

Looking ahead, Yuni remains focused on strengthening national advocacy and fostering collaboration to eliminate gender-based violence, promote equality, and build a society where every woman can live free from fear and discrimination.