UNAIR NEWS – The Bill on Sexual Violence Eradication (RUU TPKS) has officially been enacted. Legal expert of Universitas Airlangga, Dwi Rahayu Kristanti SH MA, is optimistic that this moment could be a good step to achieving justice for the survivors. “With the proper implementation, and support from various parties, I am optimistic that the first goal of this battle could be realized,” she stated.
The Lecturer from the Faculty of Law (FH) UNAIR, better known as Yeyen, highlighted positive perspectives on this law. “In contrast to the Criminal Code (KUHP), UU TPKS is oriented to the victims, so it is deemed able to provide justice to the victims,” stated the Flinders University alumna.
The perspective is seen on the three rights owned by victims: treatment, protection, and recovery. If previously the government was only responsible until the verdict had been stated, the government is also accountable for the victim’s recovery. “I take this as a positive thing because, as we know, recovery is important and could take a long time,” she continued.
Yeyen argues that UU TPKS has become the fresh air to the unaccommodated victims of the existing laws regarding its coverage. “There are requirements in sexual violence law so far, for example, must live in one household in Domestic Violence Eradication Law (UU PKDRT), and victims must be under 18 years old in Child Protection Law. Cases that do not meet these requirements can finally be accommodated,” she explained.
Although the response was positive, the academician in constitutional law emphasized that this law could increase sexual violence case reports. Sexual violence cases are considered an iceberg phenomenon, which means more cases are under the surface than cases reported. “Because of access support and guarantee to the accuser, the people will be constructed to be braver and assured in reporting sexual violence cases,” she mentioned.
Yeyen explained that UU TPKS is not the end of the law enforcement battle, but it is another step that must be proceeded and monitored. “Cooperation and efforts are necessary for us, the community, to provide as much awareness as law enforcement officers,” she concluded. (*)
Author: Stefanny Elly
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
