
Fathers as champions: Breaking gender barriers for immunization in Papua
New approach supports fathers to redefine caregiving responsibilities
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On a quiet afternoon in the hills of Pegunungan Arfak Regency, West Papua, David Saiba stands before a group of fathers gathered in the hall of Simon Hungku Church. A respected community figure and local facilitator, David is here to talk about something that many of these men have never considered their responsibility: immunization.
“I used to think health decisions were not something for fathers like me,” David begins, his voice steady and passionate. “But I’ve learned that as fathers, we have a critical role in protecting our children. It’s not just about providing—it’s about being there for their health and future.”
David’s work in Papua is part of a new effort by UNICEF to address gender barriers to immunization that have posed a longstanding public health challenge. In Indonesia, traditional norms often assign caregiving responsibilities largely to mothers, leaving fathers disengaged from critical decisions about their children’s health.

I’ve learned that as fathers, we have a critical role in protecting our children.
Global research shows a strong link between gender inequality and low immunization rates. Likewise, a gender analysis on barriers to vaccination by UNICEF in 2024 outlines how deeply engrained gender norms and power imbalances shape immunization patterns, putting a disproportionate burden on women and girls as both caregivers and patients.
To address these challenges, the study recommends specific strategies, including actively engaging men and boys in vaccination advocacy, collaborating with religious and community leaders to dispel misconceptions, adopting gender-responsive policies and strengthening health worker training to ensure inclusive, respectful and equitable care.
Father Champion Groups: A new approach

In Papua, where immunization rates are consistently low, UNICEF has partnered with community leaders and health professionals to create Father Champion Groups. These groups educate fathers on the significance of immunization, effective communication and the concept of shared caregiving responsibilities within families.
“Mothers are often willing to have their children immunized, but they say they can’t do it because their husbands won’t allow it,” says Midwife Sarce Melphy, who works closely with families in Papua. “Decisions by fathers influence mothers, so their involvement is crucial.”
Father Champion Group sessions are designed to resonate with participants. Facilitators use storytelling, role-playing and songs to simplify complex health topics. Interactive discussions create a sense of camaraderie, encouraging fathers to open up about their challenges and reflect on their roles in their children’s lives.



Health workers and facilitators strategically connect with fathers’ groups by tapping into the influence of religion. Fathers’ group sessions are often held after church meetings, creating a comfortable and familiar environment that encourages open discussion.
“Most parents spend their days farming, so their daily activities are focused on the fields. Children's health often doesn't get much attention until they are seriously ill, at which point they are taken to the community health center or hospital,” David says. “The training for fathers helps them understand why immunization is important and gives them the tools to actively support their children’s health.”
Midwife Sarce sees great potential in this approach.
“These sessions are an excellent way to reach fathers and spread the message through church networks and father associations.”
Sarce

The initiative is already making an impact. Fathers who once viewed caregiving as a mother’s responsibility are now taking more active roles. Some accompany their wives to vaccination clinics, while others ensure their children’s immunization schedules are followed at home.
“We’re seeing more fathers at clinics now,” says Sarce. “Their involvement is encouraging other families to prioritize immunization.”
Building Stronger Communities

The Father Champion Groups are not just changing individual behaviour—they are driving community-wide transformation. Some members work alongside health workers to address myths and misconceptions about vaccines. Through house visits and community meetings, they reach hesitant parents, creating a ripple effect of awareness.
Though still in its early stages, the programme has significant potential. After six months of implementation, UNICEF will present the outcomes to Indonesia’s Ministry of Health, with the goal of expanding it to other regions. UNICEF’s aim is to integrate gender-responsive immunization strategies into national healthcare policies to ensure long-term sustainability.

“When fathers play an active role in their children's health, it allows them to access routine and timely health services,” explains Firmansyah Kamummu, a UNICEF Health Officer based in Papua. “This initiative is about more than vaccines. It’s about breaking gender barriers to create healthier families and stronger communities."
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