The definition of gender equality refers to an equal condition between men and women in the fulfillment of rights and obligations. Discrimination based on gender still occurs in all aspects of life, all over the world. This is a fact despite considerable progress in gender equality today. The nature and extent of discrimination vary widely across countries or regions. There is not a single region in a third world country where women have enjoyed equality in legal, social and economic rights. Gender disparities in opportunity and control over resources, the economy, power, and political
participation are ubiquitous. Women and girls bear the brunt of the inequality that occurs, but basically inequality is detrimental to everyone. Therefore, gender equality is the main issue of a development goal that has its own value. Gender equality will strengthen a country’s ability to develop, reduce poverty, and govern effectively. Thus promoting gender equality is a major part of a development strategy in order to empower communities (everyone)-women and men-to lift themselves out of poverty and improve their standard of living. This is the fourth time ICIIS has been held virtually during the distance crisis by the pandemic. With the theme Gender, Intersectionality, and Diasporic Communities, I believe that we will gain new insights from various perspectives of scholars and researchers who have deigned to contribute to this virtual meeting. In particular, I would like to thank to the Special Staff of the President of the Republic of Indonesia for Tolerance and Diversity for the keynote addresses atthis conference.