Legal Protection for Women Victims of Verbal Sexual Harassment (Catcalling) in Pohuwato Regency

Analisis Perlindungan Hukum dan Hambatan Penegakan di Kabupaten Pohuwato

Abstract

Verbal sexual harassment, or catcalling, is a form of non-physical sexual harassment that frequently occurs in public spaces, but is often considered a joke, compliment, or normal behavior. This situation places women as a vulnerable group because victims often experience fear, shame, insecurity, trauma, and reluctance to report it. This study aims to analyze legal protection for female victims of verbal sexual harassment in Pohuwato Regency and the obstacles faced by law enforcement officers in resolving these cases. The study used a juridical-empirical method with a legislative approach, a sociological approach to law, and a victimological approach. Data were obtained through a literature review, documentation, and interviews at the Women and Children Protection Unit of the Pohuwato Police. The results show that legal protection for victims has a normative basis in the Law on Sexual Violence Crimes, particularly regarding non-physical sexual harassment, and can be implemented through reporting mechanisms, victim-friendly examinations, assistance, recovery, and law enforcement against perpetrators. However, this protection has not been optimally implemented due to minimal reporting, low legal awareness, a strong patriarchal culture, stigma against victims, and obstacles to proving non-physical harassment. This article emphasizes the need to strengthen reporting, public education, and the capacity of law enforcement officials to ensure more effective protection for catcalling victims.