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Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has changed most routines for the global population. Central and regional governments need to synergize policies to prevent further spread. Therefore, government and other agencies as well as other elements of the community are important factors in the implementation of working programs for disaster management. This study investigates the efforts of the local government and society in protecting women and children during the COVID-19 pandemic in West Java Province. In this case, the units involved include Development Planning Agency at Sub-National Level, Women's Empowerment, Child Protection and Family Planning Office, and various community organizations that focus on women's empowerment and child protection. The approach used in this study was qualitative with critical research endeavoring to understand the particular context and interactions. This brief study of the institution in the West Java Area in the provincial and district offices was conducted within one week. The results of the study showed that there are no specific policies set by the government concerning the handling of COVID-19 for women and children by the three local government institutions mentioned above. Policies created by the local government are still general in nature. There have been several strategic steps taken by government agencies regarding the protection of children and women. Government funds have been reallocated to help stop the transmission of the virus by disseminating information to the public via television, video conferencing, and other media. These programs should also be implemented asynchronously to maintain their continuity in the future. Non-governmental organizations have the flexibility to implement protection programs for children and women according to the problems and needs in the community. During the pandemic period, innovative programs for gender mainstreaming, women's empowerment, and child protection can be conducted by changing the format of existing programs to follow social-distancing health protocols but still maintain the sustainability of the programs for the long term.

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