<![CDATA[This study analyzes the contradiction between the principle of relativity and the principle of criminal universality in the regulation of pornography crimes under the New Criminal Code (Law No. 1 of 2023) (Articles 407-411). The New Criminal Code criminalizes various aspects of pornography, reflecting the protection of public morality and Indonesian cultural/religious values. The principle of relativity emphasizes that the definition of pornography is closely tied to socio-cultural and local standards. The specific provisions of the Criminal Code demonstrate a bias towards these relative moral standards. However, this poses the risk of over-criminalizing content that may be considered normal in other jurisdictions or non-exploitative for adults. Conversely, the principle of criminal universality demands universal criminal law protection, especially for crimes that violate fundamental human rights, such as child pornography and sexual exploitation. In a digital and transnational context, the need for universal standards is increasingly pressing. Contradictions arise when relatively national criminal laws attempt to be applied to a universal cyberspace. Rigid moral standards have the potential to hinder legitimate artistic or sexual expression (relativity) but also risk defocusing on crimes of exploitation that require a global response (universality). This study concludes that the implementation of the New Criminal Code must be balanced with progressive interpretation.]]>
