Legal Protection for Child Victims of Sexual Violence in Cirebon City

Sexual violence against children is a crucial issue that has shown a steady increase over time and has significant impacts on the physical, psychological, and social well-being of victims. This study aims to examine the legal protection provided to child victims of sexual violence by the Women and Children's Service Unit (UPPA) of the Cirebon City Police, identify the obstacles that arise, and assess the effectiveness of its implementation. This study used an empirical juridical method with a sociological juridical approach, namely examining legal provisions and their application in practice through the collection of primary and secondary data. The results of the study indicate that legal protection for child victims of sexual violence is implemented through two main approaches: preventive and repressive. In the repressive approach, UPPA provides protection through an investigative process oriented towards the interests of the child, psychological assistance, protection of the victim's identity, and collaboration with various related parties to support the recovery process. The preventive approach is carried out through educational activities, outreach, and supervision involving families, communities, and the government to prevent acts of sexual violence. However, the implementation of this protection still faces various obstacles, including limited resources, low public awareness, and victims' psychological conditions, which can hinder the legal process. Therefore, more synergistic collaboration between law enforcement officials, the government, and the community is needed to ensure more effective and optimal legal protection for child victims of sexual violence, ensuring that children's rights are fully met.