New regulations in Indonesia mandate that only the police can authorize abortions for rape victims, sparking criticism from rights activists who view the changes as regressive.
Abortion is generally illegal in Indonesia, except in cases of medical emergencies or rape.
Previously, women could obtain the necessary documentation from medical professionals or psychologists, but the new rules require a police-issued document.
A spokesperson for the national police has not provided details on the implementation or the procedures for handling rape victims under these new rules.
Maidina Rahmawati from the Indonesian Institute for Criminal Justice Reform (ICJR) noted that the police have not issued internal regulations regarding assistance for rape victims, including emergency contraception, safe abortion services, or specialized training for officers.
In Indonesia, where abortion is taboo, the new regulations may deter rape victims from seeking help.
“In general, women are still scared because of the culture, norms, and also religion,” said Olin Monteiro of the Jakarta Feminist group. “
These values hinder women from accessing their right to terminate a pregnancy,” she added. “This regulation means that victims only have one choice. They have to go to the police. So, it’s very limiting.”
Women’s activist Tunggal Pawestri echoed this sentiment, stating that the rules do nothing to aid victims. “Instead of really supporting the victims of rape, I think this will be a regression,” she said.
Source-Reuters
