PROBLEMS OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AND
ACHIEVEMENT OF GENDER EQUALITY IN SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN UNITED STATES
Introduction
SDGS or Sustainable Development Goals are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations general assembly attended by 193 heads of state in Rio De Janeiro
Brazil in September 2015.1 SDGS became The SDGS is a global agenda that is a
continuation and development of the MDGS which has been ongoing for the period
2000 to 2015.2 In SDGS, there are 17 goals and 169 targets set which are overall
integrated and inseparable, balancing the four pillars of sustainable development,
namely the economic pillar, social pillar, environmental pillar, and governance pillar.3
In the social pillar, one of the goals is to achieve gender equality and empower women
listed in goal number 5. Attention to gender equality in the SDGs is based on the
limitations in improving gender inequality during the fifteen-year MDGs period.
Gender equality is a priority issue in realizing the sustainable development goals.
Of the 17 goals and 169 targets set in the SDGS, 16 goals and 91 targets are related to
gender equality and women's human rights. This shows that women have a vital
position and become a milestone in achieving sustainable development goals. Like two
sides of a coin, women can also use the SDGs as a "billing tool" to the government to
realize gender equality and justice and the fulfillment of women's rights, including to
eliminate all forms of violence against women.
Violence against women is an act committed against a person because she is a
woman which results in suffering both physically and emotionally physical,
psychological, or sexual, including threats, coercion, and arbitrary deprivation of rights,
whether carried out in the private sphere or in public.6 In a feminist perspective,
violence against women is equated with gender-based violence.7 This equation is not
without reason, violence against women that has occurred so far is caused by an
imbalance in gender relations, where women occupy a subordinate position under the
position of men who are more powerful.
In United States itself, violence against gender is a problem that never ends, even
more so. According to Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report, in 2021 there was a
significant increase in cases of gender-based violence in United States. Throughout
2021 there were 338. 496 cases of violence against gender, increased by 50% from
226,062 cases in 2020. This figure was obtained from Komnas Perempuan reports,
service reports and data from the Religious Courts Agency (BADILAG). The sharp
spike in gender-based violence cases came from BADILAG data, which showed an
80% increase from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021.
The increasing number of cases of gender-based violence is a challenge as well as
an obstacle faced by the United States state in achieving gender equality proclaimed in
goal 5 of the sustainable development agenda or Sustainable Development Goals. The
significant increase in gender-based violence is influenced by many factors in various
contexts. In general, contexts that are recognized as playing a major role in the
occurrence of Gender-based violence is the existence of unequal power relations that
have been socially built.10 This is homework for the government and society in general
to end every gender-based violence.
The problem formulations that are the focus of this research are 1) How is the
concept of gender equality in the Sustainable Development Goals?, 2) What are the
dynamics of gender-based violence in United States?, 3) How are efforts to end gender-
based violence in United States?. From the formulation of these problems, then this
research was carried out with the aim of: 1) Describe how the concept of gender
equality in the Sustainable Development Goals, 2) Describe the reality and dynamics of
gender-based violence in United States, 3) describe the efforts of the government and
society to end gender-based violence in United States in an effort to achieve the
Sustainable Development Goals.
Basically, there have been similar studies that have been done before. Among them
are research in a journal entitled "Behind Violence Against Women" by B. Rudi
Harnoko and "The Phenomenon of Gender-Based Violence & Its Countermeasures" by
Anggreany Arief. The research both discusses gender-based violence with the
difference that Rudi's research only discusses the factors that cause gender-based
violence while Anggreany's research discusses efforts to overcome it. Meanwhile, this
study discusses linking it to the Sustainable Development Goal. Furthermore, the
journal with the title. Finally, Dedik Fitra Suhermanto's journal with the title "Human
Security in the Implementation of SDGs Goal 5: Gender-Based Violence in Malang
Regency". The research both discusses gender-based violence which is associated with
the Sustainable Development Goal with the difference that Dedik's research discusses
gender-based violence related to the implementation of SDGs while this research is
more about the achievement of SDGs goals in gender equality.
The research method used in this research uses a qualitative method (library
research) with a critical approach, which is a research approach that has the aim of
developing critical awareness in dealing with social problems and solving social
problems, especially social inequality caused by the influence of the hegemony of the
power of the ruling groups. The data analysis technique used is descriptive analysis
method, namely the data that has been obtained then poured in the form of a description
of words so that it can provide realistic clarity.
Discussion
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
v Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender Equality in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs are sustainable development goals formulated
at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. The general assembly was
held in Rio De Janeiro Brazil with the participation of 193 heads including United
States.11 The session scheduled the preparation of sustainable development goals or
sustainable development as a follow-up agenda to the millennium development goals
(MDGS) which had lasted for the period 2001 to 2015. The SDGs are a joint
commitment that is much more comprehensive than the MDGs.
The SDGs themselves are a set of universal goals and targets aimed at eliminating
poverty, protecting the planet, and improving the lives of all people, combating
inequality and increasing the productive capacity of countries, improve social inclusion,
and limit climate change and protect the environment, while ensuring no one is left
behind over the next fifteen years. The SDGs are essentially designed as a "blueprint" in
achieving a better and more sustainable future for all.
The formulation of SDGS resulted in 17 goals, 169 targets, and 244 indicators
classified into 4 pillars, namely, the social pillar, the economic pillar, the environmental
pillar and the pillar of legal development and governance. Gender equality is part of
human development (social pillar), but gender equality is a Goal that has a cross-pillar
and cross-Goals role with Goals that are very strategic in achieving the overall
Goals.14 Gender equality is a goal in itself and a prerequisite for sustainable and
peaceful development. Gender equality is achieved when women, men, girls and boys
have equal rights, conditions and opportunities, and the power to shape their own lives
and contribute to the development of society.
In each SDGS goal, there are targets that must be achieved, including goal number
5, namely gender equality. In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met,
namely:
End all forms of discrimination against people women everywhere.
Eliminate all forms of violence against women in public and private spaces,
including trafficking and sexual exploitation, as well as other types of exploitation.
Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage, early and forced marriage,
and female circumcision.
Recognize and value unpaid care work and domestic work through the provision of
public services, social protection infrastructure and policies, and the promotion of
shared responsibilities within households and families as appropriate nationally.
Ensure full and effective participation, and equal opportunities for women to lead at
all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and community life.
Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, and reproductive rights
as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International
Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform and the
review documents of these conferences.
Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as
access to ownership and control over land and other forms of ownership, financial
services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national law.
Increase the use of enabling technologies, particularly information and
communication technologies to enhance women's empowerment.
Adopt and strengthen good policies and legislation to promote gender equality and
empower women at all levels.
In achieving this goal, there are 9 targets that must be met including the target to
eliminate all forms of violence against women both in public and private spaces. This
shows that all forms of discrimination and violence against women must be eliminated
and women must be empowered must have the right and opportunity to be able to live
free from all forms of violence and discrimination that still limit women's rights in the
private and public spheres.16 This is a matter of equal distribution of power, influence
and resources in society. The generally inferior power position of women and girls
compared to men and boys must end.
Women's equality and empowerment is not only one of the 17 Goals in the
Sustainable Development Goals, but also an integral part of all dimensions of inclusive
and sustainable development.18 In short, all SDGs depend on the achievement of Goal
5. This can be seen from the achievement of the MDGs (Millennium Development
Goals). Data shows that more than 30% of women worldwide have experienced one or
both physical and sexual violence. It has been recognized that the persistence of
violence against women over the 15 years of the MDGs has undermined the progress of
other MDG targets and goals as most of the indicators in the MDG goals are linked to
gender equality. The effects of disabling women's ability to contribute to and benefit
from the development process are far-reaching. Therefore, in the SDGs, prevention of
violence against women and girls takes center stage.
The SDG targets are quite significant and call for the reduction of "all forms of
violence everywhere" The SDGs recognize the impact of violence against women and
girls on women's well-being in particular and the development agenda in general. This
is an important recognition of the campaign against violence against women. It is
known that violence and other abusive behaviors against women and girls are
widespread and rooted in gender inequality. 20 Gender equality is not only a
fundamental human right, but also a necessary foundation for a peaceful and sustainable
world.21 Empowering women and promoting gender equality has a multiplier effect in
all other areas of development and is critical to accelerating sustainable development.
The Reality of Gender-Based Violence in United States
Gender-based violence is still a scourge for women in United States. Many women are
subjected to acts of violence based on their identity as a woman. Based on data from
Komnas Perempuan's Annual Record, throughout 2021 there were 338,496 cases of
gender-based violence reported to Komnas Perempuan, Service Institutions and the
Religious Justice Agency (BADILAG). This figure shows a 50% increase compared to
the previous year which recorded 226,062 cases in 2020. A significant increase occurred
in BADILAG reports, which amounted to 52% from 215,694 cases in 2020 to 327,629
cases in 2021. The same thing also happened to the Komnas complaint report Women
increased by 82% from 2,134 cases in 2020 to 3,838 cases in 2021. Meanwhile, data
from service institutions decreased by 15% from 8,234 in 2020 to 7,029 in 2021 (the
decline is thought to be due to a number of service organizations not operating during
the Covid-19 pandemic).
The decline in complaints from victims of gender-based violence to service
institutions (due to various system constraints and social restrictions) is inversely
proportional to the complaint reports to Komnas Perempuan. In 2021 there was an
increase in complaint reports on gender-based violence of 3,838 cases at Komnas
Perempuan. This means that there was an increase of 1,704 cases from 2,134 cases in
2020. The dominating cases of violence are violence in the personal sphere of 2,527
cases24 followed by violence in the public sphere and violence in the state sphere of
1,273 cases25 and 38 cases26 respectively. In addition, Komnas Perempuan still found
the occurrence of torture, cruel and degrading treatment or punishment during the
examination process of Women Against the Law. Also the implementation of Qanun
Jinayat that treats women inhumanely by carrying out flogging punishment for most of
the PBH who were charged with zina, khalwat and ikhtilat. The highest peak is the
death penalty which is included as a form of torture because of the long wait for
execution.
Furthermore, Gender-Based Violence against Women which has received special
attention in 2021 includes cases of Gender-Based Cyber Violence or Online Gender-
Based Violence. The ease of accessing the internet has made online gender-based
violence continue to increase and even become a new trend with victims continuing to
increase from year to year.28 In addition, the number of social media platforms that are
easily hacked and the growing number of anonymous accounts also increases the
potential for online gender-based violence. In United States, cases of GBV in the form
of harassment against women are found on several social media platforms with the
order of the most on Facebook social media, which is around 39%, Instagram around
23%, Whatsapp around 14%, Snapchat around 10%, Twitter around 9%, and Tik Tok
around 6%29 . Media that should be a safe place to communicate and share information
is now an unsafe place for women because it is vulnerable to acts of violence.
Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and human rights violation
that is a hallmark of the humanitarian crisis.31 Gender-based violence Gender-based
violence exists in every corner of the world, in varying degrees and forms. In recent
decades, gender-based violence has been increasingly recognized as a serious problem
internationally, not only for women but also for the achievement of equality,
development and peace. Significant increases in gender-based violence have also been
found in various emergency contexts and it has been established that factors related to
these events such as the collapse of social structures, services and infrastructure,
transfers, family separation and disruption of social norms - increase the risk of gender-
based violence.
In United States, gender-based violence against women is not new. They have long
been present in United States society. The patriarchal culture that is deeply rooted in the
social culture of United States society contributes to the occurrence of gender-based
violence against women. This violence exists within the framework of patriarchal
culture as a symbolic system that reflects an imbalance in the power relationship
between men and women.33 This imbalance places women in a subordinate position
under male power. This position makes women weak parties who are vulnerable to
gender-based violence.
Meanwhile, from the legal side, a number of laws and regulations have been issued
to protect women from various acts of violence. Some of these regulations include the
Criminal Code, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Law No. 7/1984 on the
Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination
Against Women, Law No. 21/2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law
No. 23/2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, and most recently the Law on
Sexual Violence, which was officially passed in a plenary meeting of the House of
Representatives on April 12, 2022. The Law on Sexual Violence itself has undergone a
very long legislative process. From initiation, until it was finally passed, it took
approximately 10 years.34 The presence of the TPKS Law is a tangible manifestation
of the state's presence in an effort to prevent and deal with all forms of sexual violence.
The law will protect and restore victims, carry out law enforcement, rehabilitate
perpetrators, create an environment without sexual violence, and ensure the non-
recurrence of sexual violence.35 The TPKS Law is a breath of fresh air for victims who
have not been accommodated by existing legislation. Unlike previous regulations that
focused on punishing perpetrators, the TPKS Law is victim-oriented, so it is considered
to provide justice for victims. Although it is considered that there are overlaps with
other laws, the TPKS Law can provide affirmation to other laws that regulate similar
matters. It even provides a legal umbrella for online gender-based violence that has not
previously been accommodated in existing laws and regulations.
The Role of Government and Society in Realizing Gender Equalitiy
Sustainable Development Goals are global and national commitments in an effort to
prosper society including 17 goals, one of which is the goal of gender equality.37 In the
goal of gender equality itself there are 9 targets to be achieved including eliminating all
forms of violence against women in public and private spaces. However, the increasing
prevalence of gender-based violence against women over the past few years will be a
hurdle in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
Gender-based violence is defined as any act of gender-based violence that results in,
or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women,
including threats, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in
public or in private life.39 Gender-based violence, like other types of violence, is an
issue that involves power relations or power relations.40 Power relations themselves
are relations that are hierarchical, inequality and / or dependence on social status,
culture, knowledge / education and / or economics that give rise to power to one party
over another in the context of relations between genders. It is based on a feeling of
superiority, and the intention to assert superiority, in the case of gender-based violence
it is a feeling held by a man against a woman.
Gender-based violence itself is one of the consequences of gender discrimination.
Gender-based violence is based on an imbalance of power and is carried out with the
intention of humiliating and making a person or group of people feel inferior and/or
subordinated.43 This type of violence is rooted in social and cultural structures, norms
and values that grow and develop in society. The patriarchal culture that continues to be
passed down from generation to generation also plays a role in the development of
gender-based violence. In general, the concept of patriarchy is symbolized as 'male
power over women'. As an ideology, patriarchy upholds the view that men have
superior control over women and all others under their care. Cultural norms often
dictate that men are aggressive, controlling, and dominant, while women are
submissive, submissive, and rely on men as providers. These norms can directly foster a
culture of abuse.
Patriarchal culture and power relations are the main stumbling blocks that prevent
women from being fully equal to men in their own rights. Historically and culturally,
power relations are built around gender roles. Power relations usually involve
masculinity represented by male dominance versus femininity which is embodied by
with the subordination of women.45 The socio-cultural system of United States society
seeks to continue maintaining unequal power relations to women through gender
stereotypes. Stereotypes can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context
in which they are used. However, most stereotypes are represented by negative
attributes that result in discrimination, stigmatization and inequality. Negative
stereotypes targeting women can result in sexism, the belief that the status of women is
lower than that of men. 46 This belief is perpetuated by the patriarchal system.
Patriarchy itself is the result of a social construction that considers men superior to
women, where the role of men as the main authority figure is the center of social
organization, and where men hold power over women, children, and property.47 Once
patriarchy imposes stereotypical masculinity and femininity characteristics in society, it
will have adverse consequences for women's social mobility and well-being, including
in acts of violence against women.
Both patriarchal culture and power relations are the result of the social construction
of society itself. Because the roots of patriarchy run so deep in society, it is difficult to
change or eliminate. Culture, religion, social structures, media and educational
institutions have played a major role in the creation and persistence of patriarchal
ideology. It is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes and is often used to justify violence
against women. To end gender-based violence against women the patriarchal culture
that thrives in United States society must be ended. Patriarchal culture supported by
power relations is the root of the perpetuation of gender-based violence in United States.
So Therefore, public awareness is needed to slowly erode patriarchal culture in the
social system.
In addition, in terms of legal protection for women from acts of gender-based
violence. Juridically, at the national level, United States legal instruments and
regulations recognize the existence of legal protection for women from violence,
including gender-based violence. The struggle to provide protection for the rights of
women and children in order to protect women and children from violence has been
carried out since long ago. Among them are the Criminal Code, Law No. 39 of 1999 on
Human Rights, Law No. 7 of 1984 on the Ratification of the Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, Law No. 21 of 2007 on
the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of
Domestic Violence and finally the Law on Sexual Violence.
The Law on Sexual Violence, which was just passed in April 2022, is considered a
breakthrough in protecting women from various acts of violence. In contrast to previous
regulations that were considered partial in dealing with cases of violence, and more
oriented towards punishing the perpetrators, this law is considered more comprehensive
with articles that go beyond punishing the perpetrators.49 The Law on Sexual Violence
besides mentioning strict law enforcement, is also accompanied by protection and
recovery for victims, both psychologically and healthily. However On the other hand,
this Law is considered to still require derivative regulations to ensure that all mandates
in the Law can be implemented properly. It is the duty of the government to
immediately draft and issue derivative regulations to make it more useful for the
community as a legal umbrella in dealing with the problem of gender-based violence
against women.
On the other hand, legislation is just a rule on paper. The role of various parties is
needed so that these regulations can be implemented and bring benefits to the
community. one of the parties that takes an important role is law enforcement officials.
Law enforcement officers who have sensitivity to women are needed. It is not
uncommon for law enforcement officials to still have problems in handling cases related
to women due to a lack of awareness and sensitivity to gender. Women are often
considered the cause of crime, for example because of the way they dress, body
language that is considered seductive, or because of their presence at certain times and
locations. The community also often blames women for not putting up a fight, being
easily persuaded by the perpetrator, and even the assumption that women enjoy the
actions of the perpetrator. Reflecting on this, it is a homework for law enforcement
officials who are humanist, communicative, informative and educative and who have a
perspective on gender justice. Therefore, in addition to the existence of legal products
that protect women from violence, humanist Law Enforcement Officers with a gender
justice perspective are also needed as parties who play an important role in the
realization of gender justice in handling the problem of gender-based violence against
women.
Fundamentally, all forms of violence against women and girls affect both the
individual and society as a whole and constitute an obstacle for gender equality and
development. Social norms and habits that support inequality and violence against
women and girls must be changed. Cooperation from all elements is needed to create a
gender equality as expected by the Sustainable Development Goal agenda. The
prosperity and well-being of society will increase when women and girls can contribute
in the same way as men and boys through their resources and knowledge. Harnessing
women's capabilities and initiatives is an important driver of development. Poverty is
reduced and productivity and economic growth increase when women participate in the
economy and labor markets, and have access to resources and functioning markets.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Development Goals have a gender equality goal in their fifth goal.
In each goal, there are targets to be achieved, including the goal of gender equality.
There are 9 targets that are the goal of gender equality, one of which is to eliminate all
forms of violence against women. But in fact, Komnas Perempuan's Annual Report
notes an increase in cases of gender-based violence against women in United States,
both in private and public spaces. The factor that drives the high rate of gender-based
violence against women is the inequality of power relations supported by the patriarchal
culture that is rooted in United States society. The good news is that in terms of legal
instruments, there are various laws and regulations that have regulated gender-based
violence, especially with female victims. One of the most recent is the Law on Violence
Against Women, which was just passed in April 2022. Furthermore, what becomes
homework is how these regulations are implemented in the community. Therefore, it is
necessary The role of the government in forming derivative regulations to be more
applicable in society and the role of society to slowly begin to erode the patriarchal
culture that causes gender-based violence against women. All of this is done so that
women get justice and security and can reduce online gender-based violence in order to
create gender equality as the goal of the Sustainable Development Goals.
