Nindy J. Bachtiar
 |
| Catcalling is a form of sexual harassment. |
Feminist
Society - Have you ever been in a public place such
as on the street, on public transportation, and so on, and received unpleasant
treatment with the intention of lowering your dignity such as whistling,
teasing, and various other comments from the opposite sex? This is known as
catcalling. Nowadays, cases of catcalling are increasingly rampant and
increasing in society, even many of us normalize it on the grounds that it is
just a joke and not a form of sexual violence, in fact it is a form of
sexual violence that is classified as non-physical sexual harassment.
In Article 4
paragraph (1) of Law Number 12 of 2022 concerning Criminal Acts of Sexual
Violence, it is explained that one form of sexual violence is non-physical
sexual harassment. Then in Article 5 of the a quo Law, it is further
explained that anyone who commits a non-physical sexual act aimed at the body,
sexual desire, and/or reproductive organs with the intention of degrading a
person's dignity and honor shall be punished for non-physical sexual
harassment, with a maximum imprisonment of 9 months and/or a maximum fine of
ten million rupiah.
Understanding Catcalling
Terminologically, Catcalling
is a term used to describe when someone makes unsolicited comments, whistles,
or gestures, often of a sexual nature, towards another person, usually on the
street. While some might dismiss it as harmless or playful, catcalling is a
form of sexual harassment that can have serious impacts on the victim. Catcalling
often involves strangers making loud comments or noises directed at someone
passing by. These comments are typically sexual and objectifying, focusing on
the person’s appearance. For example, a man might whistle at a woman walking
down the street or shout remarks about her body.
Why is
Catcalling Harmful?
1.
Unwanted Attention
Catcalling is
unwanted and unsolicited. It can make the person being targeted feel
uncomfortable, unsafe, and violated. Victims tend to feel uncomfortable when
they receive catcalling, especially from strangers they do not know.
2.
Power and Control
Catcalling is
often about exerting power over the other person. It can make the victim feel
powerless and objectified, reducing them to mere objects of sexual desire
rather than respecting them as individuals.
3.
Fear and Anxiety
Repeated
experiences of catcalling can lead to feelings of fear and anxiety. Victims may
start to avoid certain streets, change their clothing, or even feel unsafe in
public spaces. Even worse, catcalling can cause mental health problems.
The Impact on Victims
Many victims of
catcalling report feeling a range of negative emotions, from annoyance and
discomfort to fear and trauma. Over time, the constant barrage of unwanted
attention can take a toll on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. It can
affect their self-esteem and their ability to feel safe in their own community.
You can also read: Forced Marriage: A Violation of Human Rights
What Can Be
Done?
1.
Education and Awareness
Raising awareness
about the harmful effects of catcalling is crucial. Educating people about what
constitutes sexual harassment and why it is unacceptable can help change
attitudes and behaviors. By knowing exactly what it is not supposed to be will
drive people’s perception not to normalize catcalling.
2.
Speak Up
If you witness
catcalling, consider speaking up. Letting the harasser know that their behavior
is not acceptable can make a difference. However, it’s important to do so in a
way that does not put anyone at risk.
3.
Support the Victim
If you know
someone who has been a victim of catcalling, offer them support. Listen to
their experiences and validate their feelings. Encourage them to report the
harassment if they feel comfortable doing so.
4.
Active Role of Law
Enforcement Officers
The law
enforcement officers must be alert in taking action when there are reports. In
addition, they must also take the perspective of the victim so that they do not
take catcalling lightly. According to the report from ActionAid in 2018, 68% of
women worldwide who have been sexually harassed have not reported it to the
police since the police tend to regard it as a trivial matter. These statistics
show how sexual harassment is seen as normal, part of everyday life, and that
women fear they won't be taken seriously if they report it. It is part of a
spectrum of violence against women and girls that holds them back and prevents
them from achieving their potential. Therefore, there should be an active role
by law enforcement officers to take catcalling into consideration as a serious
crime.
Conclusion
Catcalling is not
just a harmless compliment; it is a form of sexual harassment that can have
serious consequences for the victim. By understanding the impact of catcalling
and taking steps to address it, we can create a safer and more respectful
environment for everyone. It is time to move beyond dismissing these behaviors
and recognize them for what they are unacceptable and harmful.
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View More:
The Law Number 12
of 2022 concerning Criminal Acts of Sexual Violence.
https://www.alittlebithuman.com/what-is-catcalling/
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