Jurnal Perempuan & Anak
Vol. 9 No. 2 (2026): Agustus

Between Stigma and Protection: The Role of the Government in Addressing Violence Against Female Sex Workers

Kamila Khoirunnisa (STIA Balaputra Dewa Palembang)
Syahri (Universitas Tamansiswa Palembang)
Ayu Maharani (STIA Balaputra Dewa Palembang)
Sania Fatricia (STIA Balaputra Dewa Palembang)
Wirasinee Tongsoo (Khon Kaen University, Thailand)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Sep 2026

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of government in addressing violence against female sex workers (FSWs) as a vulnerable group facing multiple forms of violence and social stigma. The study employs a qualitative research type with a narrative literature review approach. Data were obtained from laws and regulations, reports from government institutions and independent organizations, publications by international organizations, and relevant scientific articles. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis by identifying key themes, including social stigma, structural violence, government policy, and legal protection for female sex workers. The results show that female sex workers are vulnerable to physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence perpetrated by clients, pimps, law enforcement officers, and the community. This vulnerability is compounded by social stigma and structural violence that restrict access to healthcare services, legal aid, and social protection. Although Indonesia already has various regulations governing the protection of women from violence, their implementation has not fully reached female sex workers due to policy approaches that remain repressive and the persistence of social discrimination. The government therefore needs to strengthen more inclusive, human rights-based policies by expanding access to healthcare services, legal aid, psychological support, economic empowerment, and public education to reduce stigma against female sex workers. A comprehensive approach is expected to sustainably improve the protection and fulfillment of the rights of this vulnerable group

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

JPA

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Environmental Science Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences Other

Description

Focus and Scope Jurnal Perempuan dan Anak (JPA) merupakan media komunikasi dan informasi terkait dengan perempuan dan anak. JPA diterbitkan oleh Lembaga Pengkajian, Pemberdayaan Perempuan dan Anak (LP3A) Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang, sejak Januari 2013. JPA dikembangkan dengan maksud untuk ...