"Everyone can be a victim of online gender-based violence, including women, children, and other vulnerable groups. The modes of the violence vary from cyber grooming, online harassment, hacking, illegal content, privacy violations, threats of distribution of personal pictures or videos to defamation, and so on," she noted here on Monday.
According to the minister, online gender-based violence has emerged from the rapid development of technology and the massive use of social media.
Just like cases of violence in other spheres, online gender-based violence also has several negative impacts, she said.
"Victims and survivors experience different impacts such as psychological losses, social alienation, economic losses, and hindrances in participating in online and offline platforms," she pointed out.
Based on data from the annual report of the National Commission on Violence against Women (Komnas Perempuan), at least 940 online gender-based violence cases were reported in 2020, she noted. This number was much higher compared to the previous year, when it was recorded at 241, she added.
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In the draft sexual violence prevention bill (RUU TPKS), there is one article that regulates the punishment for online sexual violence, she highlighted.
"This is a manifestation of the government's presence in protecting women, children, and vulnerable groups from any sorts of sexual violence anywhere," Puspayoga said.
The ministry is also stressing the importance of online privacy protection to prevent the occurrence of online gender-based violence, she added.
"If someone becomes a victim, immediately document what happened in detail and chronologically, to help the reporting process. Immediately seek help. The public can contact the service of women and children (SAPA) through calling 129 or WhatsApp at 08111-129-129," Puspayoga remarked.
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Translator: Anita D, Kenzu T
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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