<![CDATA[This study examines the implementation of legal protection for child victims of sexual violence within the jurisdiction of the East Java Regional Police, focusing on the Women and Children Service Unit of the Sub-Directorate for Adolescents, Children, and Women. It employs empirical legal research with a socio-legal approach. Primary data were obtained through interviews with two investigators as key informants and direct observation of victim-handling procedures. Secondary data were collected from legislation and scholarly literature. The data were analysed qualitatively by comparing normative child-protection standards with investigative and service practices. The findings demonstrate that the East Java Regional Police have implemented complaint registration, needs assessment, legal assistance, healthcare services, social rehabilitation, and coordination with regional service institutions. Nevertheless, implementation has not been fully effective. The principal barriers include the limited number of investigators with expertise in child psychology and forensic interviewing, difficulties in obtaining consistent accounts from child victims, limited witness testimony, medical or psychological examinations that do not always produce clinical findings, and inadequate temporary protection facilities. The study concludes that procedural compliance with legislation does not necessarily ensure substantive protection. Effective protection requires improved investigator competence, standardised child-friendly interviewing, stronger interinstitutional coordination, and sustained recovery services. These measures are necessary to protect the child’s dignity while preserving the accuracy and evidentiary value of the investigative process.]]>
