PERAN PEACEKEEPER PEREMPUAN INDONESIA DALAM PENANGANAN EKSPLOITASI DAN KEKERASAN TERHADAP PEREMPUAN DI REPUBLIK DEMOKRATIK KONGO TAHUN 2019-2024

Abstract

This study examines the role of Indonesian female peacekeepers in addressing exploitation and violence against women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during the period 2019–2024. The primary focus is the contribution of Indonesian female contingents within the MONUSCO mission, particularly in civilian protection, victim assistance, and the implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda. The research employs Institutional Liberalism theory and Clive Archer’s concept of the roles of international organizations—forum, instrument, and actor. Using a descriptive qualitative method based on library research, the study highlights that the presence of female peacekeepers is not merely symbolic but substantive in fostering a sense of security for women and children as the most vulnerable groups in conflict zones. The findings demonstrate that Indonesian female peacekeepers are able to build trust with local communities through empathetic and gender-sensitive approaches, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping missions in civilian protection. Moreover, their presence strengthens the legitimacy of peace operations, advances Indonesia’s normative diplomacy, and contributes to the evolution of international norms regarding women’s involvement in peacekeeping missions. These findings affirm Indonesia’s shift from being a symbolic contributor to becoming a substantive actor within the global peace and security agenda.