Each 21 April, Indonesia celebrates ‘Kartini Day’. On this day, Indonesians remember the life and efforts of Raden Ayu Kartini, who has become a patriotic figure (national hero) and a symbol for (defending) women’s rights (female education in particular) as well as gender equality.
Like in many other countries around the globe, Indonesian women often find themselves in a more difficult position than men. For example, there are much more women than men who work in Indonesia's informal sector. Moreover, a significant portion of these women are unpaid workers. While 57.51 percent of Indonesia's total female workforce is employed in the informal sector, the rate is 48.81 percent for men.
With international Women’s Day approaching, the latest report from Grant Thornton, a leading global independent assurance, tax and advisory firm, shows that gender equality in Indonesia is still a matter of concern. The Grant Thornton International Business Report (IBR) reveals that the proportion of business leadership positions held by women in Indonesia has declined below the global average (22 percent), hitting a new record low of 20 percent (from 41 percent last year).