Implementation of Article 69A of Law Number 35 of 2014 on Child Protection for Victims of Child Sexual Molestation: A Case Study of the Office of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection in Bone Regency

Abstract

Sexual violence against children, particularly molestation, constitutes a serious legal and social problem in Indonesia that threatens children's rights to safety, healthy development, and dignity. This study examines the implementation of Article 69A of Law Number 35 of 2014 on Child Protection by the Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Agency of Bone Regency, South Sulawesi, and analyzes the structural factors that inhibit its effectiveness. Employing an empirical legal method with a sociology of law approach, data were collected through observation, documentary review, and interviews, then analyzed within a theoretical and regulatory framework rather than reported verbatim. The findings indicate that DP3A Bone Regency has carried out four forms of special protection: reproductive health education, physical and psychological rehabilitation, psychological assistance, and legal assistance. These forms are consistent with the mandate of Article 69A and are reinforced by cross-institutional coordination with law enforcement agencies and social service institutions. Nevertheless, three structural inhibiting factors were identified: evidentiary challenges arising from the non-physical nature of sexual crimes, low public legal literacy and social stigma that suppress case reporting, and inadequate infrastructure particularly the absence of a safe house (shelter). These findings contribute empirically to the literature on child protection law implementation, demonstrating that legislative provisions alone are insufficient without institutional strengthening, public legal education, and adequate resource allocation. The study recommends strengthening DP3A's institutional capacity, intensifying multisector collaboration, and implementing community based prevention programs.