<![CDATA[The regulation of rape as a criminal offense under Article 285 of Law No. 1/1946 concerning the former Criminal Code is considered gender-specific because it positions men as perpetrators and women as victims, making it unable to fully accommodate the development of sexual violence and the need for equal legal protection. The enactment of Law No. 1/2023 concerning the new Criminal Code through Article 473 introduces a gender-neutral concept that broadens legal subjects without distinguishing based on sex. This study aims to analyze the application of Article 473 of the new Criminal Code and its compatibility with the concept of Progressive Law. This study employs a normative juridical method using statutory and conceptual approaches. The findings indicate that Article 473 reforms the construction of criminal law by shifting the focus from biological aspects toward the protection of bodily integrity, sexual freedom, and consent. This provision is consistent with the principles of Progressive Law, which places human beings at the center of law, while strengthening human rights protection through the principles of equality before the law and non-discrimination. However, its effective implementation still requires harmonization of criminal procedural law, enhanced capacity of law enforcement officials, and changes in legal culture to ensure inclusive, equitable, and optimal protection for victims.]]>
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