Indonesia's "New" Trade

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12).

In Jakarta, one can now get more than just an overpriced bottle of tea, soda, or snacks at the corner kiosk. Now men are paying extra for sex. In between the mosques and right in front of the national police station, girls from 13 to 20 are being pimped out to passersby. Many of the girls are from outside of Jakarta, from the rural countryside. Many of them have been sold by their families in exchange for small amounts of money in times of need. Like the children bonded in India, the girls receive the smallest amount from what they bring in. Most girls get paid less than $15 a month and a small commission for each guy they are with.

In 2002, Indonesia introduced an anti-trafficking law to protect children of their country, but it has no effect on these girls, who are left to carry the shame in order to help support their family. Many of these girls are within view of Indonesia's National Commission on Women and National Commission on Human Rights. The police refuse to take any action, and even act as if it does not exist. When the authorities don't help, where can one turn? Organizations are trying to get in there and help, but it is slow-going.

Please pray for these girls who are losing their childhood on the streets of Indonesia. Remember them. Tell someone about them this week. Seek the power and comfort that flows from God. Know that God seeks justice.

(Information about the injustice taken from Australian Associated Press, April 20, 2007.)