Don't Normalize Lewd Chats, They Are the First Step to Sexual Violence

Republika, as a publication committed to reflecting Indonesian values and societal concerns, views the recent case involving a University of Indonesia law student with grave concern. The incident, which highlights verbal sexual harassment through digital means, serves as a stark reminder that sexual violence is not solely physical. Psychologist Kasandra Putranto's insights, as reported, are crucial for our understanding: the digital realm, with its perceived anonymity, can create a false sense of security, leading individuals to cross ethical boundaries they would otherwise respect. This is not merely a communication mishap; it is a breakdown of ethical interaction. The Indonesian context, where discussions around sexual harassment and consent are ongoing, makes this case particularly resonant. We must not normalize such behavior, even in seemingly casual digital exchanges, as it represents a slippery slope towards more severe forms of violence. Universities, as centers of learning and character development, bear a significant responsibility. Merely imposing sanctions like expulsion is insufficient. A comprehensive approach is needed, fostering a culture of respect, enhancing education on consent and digital ethics, and ensuring safe, victim-centric reporting mechanisms. The 'iceberg phenomenon' of sexual violence, where much remains hidden, means we must be proactive and systematic in our response, ensuring justice and prevention.

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Cases of alleged verbal sexual violence involving University of Indonesia law students show that sexual violence does not always take a physical form, but can also occur through digital communication.