Kekerasan Berbasis Gender Kasus Ekploitasi Seksual terhadap Istri dalam Perspektif Hukum Pidana

Abstract

The high prevalence of gender-based violence in Indonesia, particularly the sexual exploitation of wives, reflects persistent unequal power relations and patriarchal norms within households. Although Indonesia has established a legal framework through Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence, Law No. 12 of 2022 on Sexual Violence Crimes, and Law No. 21 of 2007 on the Eradication of Trafficking in Persons, legal protection for wives who become victims of sexual exploitation remains insufficient. This study employs a qualitative descriptive method with a empirical approach. Empirical data were obtained through in-depth interviews with victims. The findings indicate that sexual exploitation of wives may take various forms, including marital rape, coercion into commercial sex work, exploitation through pornography, and trafficking in persons involving the sale of wives. Although these acts have been criminalized under existing laws, their implementation remains hindered by social stigma, underreporting, victims’ economic dependence, and limited access to recovery services. The study concludes that gender-responsive legal and policy reforms are necessary to strengthen victim protection, improve recovery mechanisms, expand access to justice, and support the prevention of sexual exploitation against wives in Indonesia.