Online Talkshow Safe Ride Jakarta: Collective Efforts in Paving The Way for Harassment-Free

JAKARTA, November 30, 2023 – In commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Bullyid Indonesia, in collaboration with the Global Youth Coalition for Road Safety, continued it’s Safe Ride Jakarta program with an online talkshow titled “Collective Efforts in Paving The Way for Harassment-Free.” The event aimed to foster a safer and harassment-free public transport, particularly for women and children.

Moderated by Irene Bougenville Martin, the discussion included panelists from diverse backgrounds, including Iwan Budiyono, S.Sos., M.AP. (Head of Sub Directorate for Promotion, Ministry of Transportation), Ciput Eka Purwanti, S.Si., MA. (Assistant Deputy for Child Protection, Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection), Najwa Septianingsih Manan, S.H., C.L.A. (Associate Litigator at KVH Advocates and Legal Consultants), Ulfi Puarada (Transport Analyst at Transportologi), and Yosephine Stella (Digital Sexuality Educator).

The discussion shed light on the harsh reality that many victims of sexual violence in public transportation are reluctant to report their cases, often feeling dismissed or trivialized by . For instance, the An case in Mojokerto exemplifies the underreporting of sexual violence in public transportation. Panelists also shared their personal experiences of the common fear felt by passengers, especially at night, and instances of verbal harassment against women in public transportation. In response to this challenge, the panelists emphasized the importance of approaching it with empathy and understanding. They highlighted that to address the fear and stigma associated with experiences of sexual violence in public transportation, there is a need for a method that can provide effective first aid. One relevant and applicable method is the butterfly hug. The butterfly hug method is deemed essential as a first aid approach in the context of anxiety prevention or when recalling experiences of sexual violence.

In addressing these issues, the panelists emphasized the importance of regulations in the transportation sector, covering both safety and security aspects. Safety focuses on the technical aspects of transportation services, while security involves guaranteeing and addressing illegal actions, including harassment. The government is urged to enforce the obligation for transportation operators to have a Safety Management System (SMS) with various related elements. However, in the context of technology transfer research, challenges related to harmonizing regulations, addressing sexual violence, and training public transportation drivers still require further attention. It is essential to expand services and understanding of security protocols by transportation operators while addressing challenges in implementing regulations related to safety and security. In particular, to ensure the safety and security of public transportation users, the importance of using CCTV as evidence, providing access to special services for women and children, the efforts of authorities in protecting and recovering victims, as well as rehabilitating perpetrators of sexual harassment, were emphasized.

The panelists also acknowledged the importance of collaboration between the government, transportation operators, and the community as the key to creating a safe and supportive transportation environment for all individuals. On an important note, victims and witnesses are encouraged to seek help immediately and report incidents to the authorities as soon as possible. Support can be found through government institutions such as the nearest police office, the nearest Legal Aid Foundation (LBH), the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan), the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM), or by contacting POS SAPA at 112 and P2TP2A at 081317617622.

Bullyid Indonesia and all panelists encourage everyone to unite in facing the challenge of sexual violence in public transportation, creating sustainable solutions, and ensuring the safety of all passengers.