Akademika : Jurnal Pemikiran Islam
Vol 31 No 1 (2026)

THE ROLE OF FATAYAT NU IN COUNTERING SEXTORTION AND PROTECTING WOMEN’S DIGNITY: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF URBAN MUSLIM SOCIETY

Indriyani Idris (Universitas Pamulang, Indonesia)
Galuh Aulia Ramadhanti (Universitas Pamulang, Indonesia)
Kurniawan Kurniawan (Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta, Indonesia)
Saima Arzeen (University of Peshawar, Pakistan)



Article Info

Publish Date
22 May 2026

Abstract

This study examines sextortion as a form of gender-based sexual corruption within urban Muslim communities, particularly in educational and religious settings, and analyses the role of Fatayat Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) in addressing the culture of silence surrounding the issue. The research employed a qualitative design within an interpretive-critical paradigm. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with ten informants comprising educators, Fatayat NU cadres, urban community members, and students, as well as participant observation and document analysis. The data were analysed using thematic analysis informed by Feminist Standpoint Theory, the Spiral of Silence, social constructionism, and critical communication perspectives. The findings indicate three main themes. First, sextortion is frequently normalised through symbolic authority, moral legitimacy, and ambiguous social relations that obscure coercive practices. Second, fear of stigma, institutional reputation, and digital exposure reinforces a culture of silence, particularly among women in urban religious environments. Third, participatory communication spaces facilitated by Fatayat NU contribute to developing critical awareness and provide alternative forums for articulating women’s experiences, although these initiatives remain limited by uneven institutional support and the absence of integrated protection mechanisms. This study contributes to discussions on gendered corruption and urban Muslim communication by highlighting the relationship between patriarchal power relations, silence, and participatory religious activism in the prevention of sextortion.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

akademika

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Education Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences

Description

Akademika provides a means for sustained discussion of relevant issues that fall within the focus and scopes of the journal which can be examined empirically. Akademika welcome papers from academicians on theories, philosophy, conceptual paradigms, academic research, as well as religion ...