KY Discusses Oversight and Implementation of Sexual Violence Crime Law in Judicial System

The Judicial Commission (KY) held a cross-sector discussion forum in Jakarta on Tuesday to discuss the oversight and implementation of the Sexual Violence Crime Law (UU TPKS) within the criminal justice system. KY Deputy Chair Desmihardi stated that the law’s implementation has shown some progress since its enactment four years ago, although it has not been uniformly applied across all regions and stages of the judicial process. “However, this progress has not yet resulted in uniform implementation across all regions and at every stage of the judicial process,” Desmihardi said. According to him, progress is marked by the establishment of various regulations and institutions, the development of complaint and support services, an increasing number of law enforcement officials utilising the provisions of the UU TPKS, and heightened attention towards victims. He added that social stigma and power imbalances remain obstacles for victims seeking to report crimes and access safe, accessible, and sustainable services. Desmihardi asserted that the KY has a constitutional interest in ensuring the administration of justice is conducted with integrity, accountability, and respect for the dignity of all justice seekers. “This forum demonstrates that handling sexual violence crimes is not the responsibility of a single institution, but rather a collaborative effort requiring a shared perspective, strong coordination, and a real commitment to siding with victims,” he stated. On the same occasion, Veronica Tan assessed that the implementation of the UU TPKS is still not optimally integrated among stakeholders. She also highlighted cases of violence against women and children in the regions that face obstacles in their resolution, necessitating strengthened inter-agency coordination. “Therefore, the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection is collaborating with six ministries to create a joint decree on an integrated service pilot programme,” Veronica said. Meanwhile, Asep noted that the increase in reported cases could be influenced by growing public awareness to report, increased trust in law enforcement officials, and the rising professionalism of prosecutors who focus not only on perpetrators but also on fulfilling victims’ rights. However, he assessed that the implementation of restitution remains a challenge, as not all victims receive adequate compensation. Asep also supported strengthening inter-agency integration in handling and protecting women and children who are victims of sexual violence.