Sexual harassment is still rampant in Indonesian society and is often considered a normal act rather than a severe crime. Such disturbing perceptions are deeply rooted in the influence of the patriarchal system on the social way of life. Formed under the influence of such a system, most Indonesian women regard themselves as subordinate to men and thus develop the ingrained belief that they must patiently tolerate inappropriate behavior. These various forms of harassment, which threaten the safety and security of women, have consequently minimized in society and been thought of as minor issues.
This normalization of harassment is even further legitimized by explanations that explain such behaviors are just "part of the culture." People view these acts as some given in life, with which one should not question nor oppose. In consequence, women might internalize the attitudes reducing their self-esteem and confidence. They may well be finding themselves within a culture of tolerance whereby aggression and disrespect are everyday phenomena. In this respect, the incidents of harassment are unwarranted to report and at first hand shameful even on the other hand, it is the victims who should go through all the pain as against the right to their claims.
Furthermore, this tolerance of sexual harassment promotes a serious void in knowledge concerning what sexual harassment really is. The male and female population is totally unaware of the legal aspects of sexual harassment and that it is a crime. Educative programs which could enlighten the masses about the gravity of these acts are greatly needed. Without proper knowledge, one might not feel that they are causing harm similarly, one may not understand why their actions have such strong implications on victims. This particular ignorance allows a vicious cycle of harassment to continue uninterrupted and victims feeling utterly lonely and unsupported.
While the recent legal steps taken in that direction, such as the Sexual Violence Law of 2022, many law enforcement officials lack proper understanding and training in these respects. Reports indicate that although reported cases of sexual violence have risen due to heightened awareness and legal protections, significant barriers still exist in the way these issues are dealt with effectively. Victims often find victim-blaming attitudes when they seek help, further discouraging them from coming forward.
Put briefly, the struggle against sexual harassment in Indonesia is not solely a matter of legal change but also one of cultural change: women's empowerment and the education of all people in society that such acts will not be tolerated. Challenging the prevailing culture of tolerance of harassment, and raising awareness of its impact, may offer some scope for a future in which women are free from the threat of harassment and can go about their lives safely.
Prevention of sexual harassment in Indonesian society has to be undertaken along various dimensions: a change in cultural perception, change in the legal framework, and change in education.
1. Cultural Change: There is a need to break the dominant culture of normalizing sexual harassment as an accepted way of behaving. This should be addressed through public awareness programs that emphasize how serious sexual harassment is and the consequences it has on the victim. It would, in turn, help society move away from the perception that such acts are mere trifles or culturally accepted by encouraging discussions on gender equality and respect for all.
2. Training and Awareness Programs: Broad educative training can assist in making men and women understand what sexual harassment entails and the subsequent legal effects resulting from it. This needs to be fully included in schools, places of work, and within the community organization for understanding, and providing the needed power toward recognition and reporting of acts. The training sessions ought to contain the rights of the victim, resources that will assist,.
3. Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Recent legal provisions that have come into effect-most significantly, the Sexual Violence Law in 2022-mean it now requires further training in effective operation by law enforcement and other judicial personnel. Additionally, clear reporting mechanisms are imperative. These should protect victims from exposure and support them every step of the way within the reporting process.
4. Â Engaging Bystanders: The facilitation of bystander intervention may help a great deal in the prevention of harassment. The training programs should include training on safe intervention when one observes inappropriate behavior and thus create an environment of responsibility among all for maintaining decorum.
5. Support Systems for Victims: A system of victim support, counseling, and hotlines will go a long way in encouraging people to speak without fear of stigma or reprisal. It builds an environment where victims will feel safe and supported; that is the way the culture of silence in sexual harassment can be broken.
