Victims of Abuse in Safe Protection: A Comprehensive Update

The Indonesian Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection has provided an update on the welfare of three alleged victims of Fajar, ensuring that they are currently in a safe and protected environment. According to Ciput Eka Purwianti, the ministry’s assistant deputy for child protection, the victims are being cared for, and none of them have fled or been placed in a safe house. Two of the victims are still accompanied by their parents, who are actively involved in their care. This arrangement ensures that the victims receive the necessary support while remaining in a familiar and comforting environment. The ministry is working closely with social workers from Kupang and East Nusa Tenggara province to provide ongoing psychological support to the victims, acknowledging the emotional and mental challenges they may face during this process.

Collaboration Between Agencies for Victim Protection

The Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection is collaborating with multiple agencies to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the case. These agencies include the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK), the Indonesian Child Protection Commission, the police, and other child protection organizations. This collective effort aims to guarantee that the case is handled in accordance with Indonesia’s laws on sexual violence crimes, which emphasize the protection of victims’ rights throughout the entire process. From investigation to recovery and empowerment, the ministry is committed to upholding the legal rights of the victims and ensuring their well-being.

Child-Friendly Investigation Processes

One of the key priorities for the ministry is to make the investigation process as child-friendly as possible. This includes ensuring that investigators do not wear official uniforms that could intimidate or frighten the victims. Additionally, the ministry emphasizes that victims of sexual violence should only be interviewed once to minimize their trauma. If further evidence is required, investigators are encouraged to use recorded interviews to avoid requiring the child to repeat their testimony multiple times. Ciput Eka Purwianti highlighted the importance of this approach, stating that it helps reduce the psychological burden on the victims and ensures a more humane and efficient investigation process.

The Prevalence of Violence Against Children in Indonesia

The 2024 National Survey on Children and Adolescents’ Life Experiences revealed alarming statistics about the prevalence of violence against children in Indonesia. According to the survey, half of all children aged 13 to 17 have experienced some form of violence during their lives. While the number of reported sexual assault cases has increased in recent years, Ciput Eka Purwianti explained that this rise does not necessarily indicate an increase in violence but rather reflects growing public awareness and a greater willingness to report such incidents. She described this trend as a “good sign,” as it suggests that more victims are feeling empowered to come forward and seek help.

Addressing Sexual Violence as a National Emergency

Despite the positive trend in reporting, sexual violence remains a critical issue in Indonesia. According to Ciput, non-contact sexual violence alone affects 4% of girls and 4% of boys, and this figure does not account for cases of contact sexual violence. She emphasized that sexual violence is still an emergency, requiring urgent attention and action from all stakeholders. The ministry is working tirelessly to address this issue, not only through legal measures but also through awareness campaigns and support services for victims. By fostering a society that prioritizes the protection and empowerment of children, Indonesia can take significant steps toward reducing the prevalence of sexual violence and ensuring the safety and well-being of its youngest citizens.

Conclusion: Protection, Empowerment, and Hope for the Future

The case of Fajar’s alleged victims has brought attention to the critical need for robust systems to protect and support victims of sexual violence in Indonesia. The Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection, along with its partners, is leading the way in ensuring that victims receive the care and justice they deserve. Through child-friendly investigation processes, psychological support, and collaboration with key agencies, the ministry is setting a strong foundation for protecting vulnerable children. While the challenge of sexual violence remains significant, the increased awareness and reporting of such cases offer hope for a future where children can grow up in safety and dignity. The continued efforts of the government, civil society, and the public will be crucial in turning this vision into a reality.