IPPFoRB MPs celebrate first female leadership in Indonesia’s prominent Islamic organization

INDONESIA - International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB) welcomes the election of women to leadership positions in Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), one of Indonesia’s most prominent Islamic organizations. The NU has been a supporter of freedom of religion or belief and religious tolerance for more than one hundred years. The increased involvement of women within the NU will play a significant role in promoting democratic principles in Indonesia.

Kasthuri Patto, Malaysian parliamentarian and IPPFoRB member states, ‘‘The appointment of women into the executive board of Nahdlatul Ulama, the biggest Islamic organization in the world, is a landmark move on protecting and spearheading freedom of religion and belief and women’s inclusivity, not only in Indonesia but also in the ASEAN region.’’
‘‘This is an exciting development for those who believe that women must be involved in policymaking. A bold move like this, to include influential, principled, and courageous women in 180-board make-up of Nahdlatul Ulama, will catalyze moderate, just, and democratic viewpoints where freedom of religion or belief is concerned.’’
Farahnaz Ispahani, former Pakistani legislator and IPPFoRB member noted, ‘‘The leading ranks of many religious organizations have for too long been the preserve of only men. This has created an unbalanced interpretation on both faith practices and women’s roles within faith groups. NU’s decision to allow women to contest and win seats on their Executive Board demonstrates the immense contributions of their women members.’’
Ms Patto concluded, ‘‘This will encourage other state parties within ASEAN to map out a regional framework on empowering women and society as a whole and will inject moral courage for Governments to do what is right and just, to ensure no one is left behind and their right to safely profess and practice their faith will be given utmost importance. I am looking forward to the snowball effect it will have on neighbouring countries like Malaysia.’’

IPPFoRB wishes Yahya Cholil Staquf, newly elected Chairman and his team, the very best as they protect, defend and promote the right to freedom of religion or belief in Indonesia and Southeast Asia.