The Effectiveness of Legal Protection for Women and Children Victims of Human Trafficking from a Human Rights Perspective in Indonesia

Abstract

Human trafficking is a transnational crime that constitutes a serious violation of human rights, particularly affecting women and children as vulnerable groups. Although Indonesia has enacted various legal instruments, including Law Number 21 of 2007 concerning the Eradication of the Crime of Human Trafficking, the implementation of victim protection remains challenging. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of legal protection for women and child victims of human trafficking from a human rights perspective in Indonesia. The study employs a qualitative method with a normative juridical approach through thematic analysis of laws and regulations, human rights instruments, and relevant literature. The findings reveal that the national legal framework has incorporated victim protection principles through prevention measures, victim identification and rescue, physical, psychological, and legal protection, rehabilitation, social reintegration, and the provision of restitution. However, the effectiveness of its implementation has not yet been optimal due to limited public awareness, inadequate resources and service facilities, weak inter-agency coordination, and increasingly complex trafficking patterns, including those facilitated through digital media. Therefore, strengthening regulations, enhancing the capacity of law enforcement officers and service providers, adopting a human rights-based and victim-centered approach, and reinforcing national and international cooperation are essential to ensure comprehensive legal protection for women and child victims of human trafficking in Indonesia.