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Jakarta (Indonesia), 25 July 2024 — In a concerted effort to advance gender equality and strengthen women’s leadership in law enforcement across Southeast Asia, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has facilitated an exchange visit between Cambodian and Indonesian law enforcement officials. Held in Jakarta earlier this month, the visit focused on empowering policewomen, developing leadership and coming up with strategies to address gender-based violence.
“Fostering inclusive practices and promoting gender equality are paramount in strengthening regional cooperation within law enforcement, especially in border areas,” said Felipe De La Torre, UNODC Border Management Coordinator.
Supported by funding from the German Federal Foreign Office, through UNODC, the exchange visit gathered high-ranking officials and experts to share best practices and address critical challenges in law enforcement.
“This exchange visit is a crucial platform for Cambodian and Indonesian law enforcement agencies to deepen collaboration and exchange insights on empowering women in law enforcement,” said Erik van der Veen, Indonesia Head of Office and UNODC Liaison to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The exchange visit underscores UNODC’s commitment to promoting gender equality and enhancing regional partnerships in law enforcement, affirming its sustained efforts to empower women throughout Southeast Asia, he added.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration and outlined actionable steps to further promote gender equality and professional excellence among policewomen in ASEAN.
Brigadier General Police Dra. Desy Andriani, representing Indonesia’s Women Police Corps, welcomed Police Lieutenant General Ros Chansophea, Deputy Commissioner General of the Cambodian National Police, emphasizing Indonesia’s commitment to advancing gender equality within its police force.
“The exchange visit marks a significant milestone in our efforts to empower policewomen and address gender-based violence,” said Brigadier General Police Dra. Desy Andriani during the delegation’s visit to the School for Police Leadership Polri. Police Lieutenant General Ros Chansophea expressed appreciation for Indonesia’s proactive approach and noted the potential for mutual learning and collaboration in enhancing law enforcement capabilities.
The visit included strategic briefings, site visits to training facilities, and discussions on protective services and inter-ministerial cooperation. It culminated in a visit to Sepolwan, where delegates participated in a graduation ceremony for newly graduates from the Indonesia Women Police School, underscoring the pivotal role of education in fostering future leaders.
“The graduation ceremony at Sepolwan was not only inspiring for our Cambodian counterparts, showcasing Indonesia’s police commitment to excellence and inclusivity, but also empowering for women and girls, demonstrating that through dedication and professionalism they can achieve anything,” said Suchaya Mokkhasen, UNODC Programme Officer for Thailand and former law enforcement officer.
Beyond strengthening bilateral ties between Cambodia and Indonesia, the visit set a precedent for future regional collaboration, with the aim to further develop a unified platform that supports and empowers policewomen throughout ASEAN.
