Members of the Catholic Women of the Republic of Indonesia (WKRI) have reiterated their commitment to combating poverty and violence at a four-day national conference held in Purwokerto recently. Around 160 WKRI members from 32 regions in Indonesia attended the Oct 13-16 meeting, which was a follow up to the organization’s 18th congress held in 2008 in Denpasar, Bali. This congress highlighted the WKRI’s role in improving people’s quality of life by combating poverty and violence. Violence is linked poverty, according to Justina Rostiawati, a delegate. “When a family is in a poor financial situation, the potential for violence within the family and against others is increased,” she said. She said women have a significant role in combating poverty, citing the 1997-8 Asian financial crisis which saw many women taking on jobs when their husbands were laid off. She also said the WKRI has a special employment training program aimed at women. Maria Saimar from Manokwari, in West Papua province, said domestic violence in her part of the country occurred as a result of alcohol abuse by their husbands. “In future, we will work together with the Joint Organization for Women to fight against domestic violence,” the 42-year-old vowed. Jesuit Father Ignatius Loyola Madya Utama, the WKRI’s new spiritual director, also said poverty is a major issue. “Catholic women cannot walk alone. They must build good relationships with all relevant parties in order to overcome challenges,” he suggested. Related Reports: Indonesian laywomen praise women’s group support