Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has established a comprehensive policy on the prevention and handling of sexual violence, as outlined in Rector’s Regulation Number 1 Year 2020. This regulation serves as a framework for creating a safe and respectful academic environment, emphasising the university’s commitment to addressing and preventing incidents of sexual violence within its community.
In 2023, UGM updated this policy to strengthen its mechanisms and ensure alignment with evolving best practices. The updated policy reinforces preventive measures, reporting procedures, and support systems for survivors, while also ensuring accountability for perpetrators. These efforts demonstrate UGM’s ongoing commitment to fostering a secure, inclusive, and supportive environment for all members of its academic community.
Rector’s Regulation Number 1 Year 2023 underscores Universitas Gadjah Mada’s (UGM) commitment to preventing and addressing sexual violence within its academic environment. Article 2 of the regulation highlights UGM’s responsibility to foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive academic atmosphere. This commitment is operationalised through integrated measures aimed at preventing, addressing, and resolving cases of sexual violence effectively.
To achieve these goals, UGM has implemented the Integrated Prevention and Handling System (SPPT), managed by the Sexual Violence Prevention and Handling Task Force (PPKS Task Force) within various units across the university. SPPT comprises two core components: prevention of sexual violence and handling cases that arise, as detailed in Chapter II of the regulation.
The regulation further elaborates on the responsibilities and measures associated with preventing and addressing sexual violence. Article 4 establishes that all members of the UGM community, including students, faculty, and staff, share the collective responsibility to create a respectful environment free from sexual violence. It emphasises principles of respect, fairness, confidentiality, and the protection of all parties involved. Article 5 outlines preventive measures that include raising awareness, education, and community engagement to promote dignity and mutual respect while addressing the underlying cultural and systemic issues that contribute to sexual violence.
Articles 6 through 9 address the provision of services to victims. Victims can report incidents through confidential mechanisms managed by the PPKS Task Force. Comprehensive support is provided, including psychological counselling, medical care, legal assistance, and secure environments to ensure victims’ safety and emotional well-being. The management of cases is conducted with a victim-centred approach, prioritising their needs and preferences while adhering to legal and ethical standards.
Recovery for survivors is emphasised in Article 10, which focuses on psychological rehabilitation, academic accommodations, and reintegration into the university community. These recovery efforts aim to empower survivors to continue their academic and personal journeys without stigma or discrimination.
Article 11 addresses actions against perpetrators, stipulating that UGM will take firm and fair measures proportional to the severity of the offence. Disciplinary actions, including dismissal or expulsion, may be imposed, and cooperation with law enforcement authorities is ensured when required.
This regulation reflects UGM’s strong dedication to fostering a safe academic environment through a holistic approach that includes prevention, support for survivors, and accountability for offenders. The establishment of SPPT and the proactive involvement of the PPKS Task Force demonstrate UGM’s resolve to ensure respect, safety, and equality for all members of its academic community.
