Jokowi Officially Signs Law On Sexual Violence

President Joko Widodo (Youtube screenshot)

JAKARTA - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has signed the Act (UU) on the Crime of Sexual Violence (TPKS). Furthermore, this law has the official number of Law Number 12 of 2022.

Law 12 of 2022 concerning the Crime of Sexual Violence was signed by President Jokowi on May 9. Furthermore, on the same day, the Minister of Law and Human Rights (Menkumham) Yasonna H. Laoly officially promulgated the legislation.

The law was previously ratified in level II discussions at the Plenary Meeting of the DPR RI on April 12, 2022. The ratification was carried out after six years of this legislation being discussed by legislators.

The TPKS Law contains several important points, one of which is to include 19 types of sexual violence including electronic-based sexual violence (KSBE).

In addition, this law regulates the prohibition of forced marriages, including in cases of rape. The law also emphasizes that cases of sexual violence cannot be resolved through restorative justice, unless the perpetrator is a minor or a child.

Then, with the existence of the TPKS Law, the police have a legal umbrella in handling cases of sexual violence. Including not being able to refuse the victim's report for any reason, so as to provide protection for the victim.

Previously, Deputy Chairman of the Legislation Board of the DPR Willy Aditya said the TPKS Law was fast in the process because it only took eight days at the discussion level. However, he made sure no substance was left behind.

"Qualitatively, this TPKS is indeed a very joss law. It is substantially qualified in a fast process, the discussion process can be completed in eight days," Willy told reporters on Wednesday, April 27.

The NasDem Party politician also explained the reasons for the discussion of the TPKS Bill to be completed quickly without compromising on quality. First, the similarity of the political will of the DPR and the government to finalize the bill.

Second, the continuous flow of participation and support from elements of society. In the drafting process, explained Willy, the DPR and the government involved 120 civil society groups.

“The political will of the DPR and the government has the same frequency, plus intensive public participation. And the DPR which is open, the hearings are all open. There is nothing to hide," he explained.