Analyzing the Impact of Sexual Violence on Campus: Effects on Victims and the Academic Community

Sexual violence on campus is a serious issue that affects various aspects of student life, including the well-being of victims and the academic community as a whole. As institutions meant to provide safe spaces for learning, growth, and self-development, campuses often become settings for sexual violence. The impact is not only personal but also social, psychological, and academic.

Psychological Impact

Sexual violence leaves deep scars on victims. Trauma, fear, and a loss of safety often dominate their experiences. Many victims suffer from conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In the long term, this trauma can hinder personal development, damage self-esteem, and disrupt social relationships.

Academic Impact

Academically, sexual violence disrupts victims’ focus and performance. Many victims struggle to resume their academic routines, experience a decline in grades, or even drop out. The situation worsens when the perpetrator is part of the campus community—whether a lecturer, staff member, or fellow student—forcing victims to continually face their abuser.

Social Impact

At the social level, sexual violence creates an unhealthy atmosphere on campus, eroding trust and solidarity among students. When campuses fail to address cases of sexual violence seriously, a culture of impunity emerges, allowing perpetrators to feel emboldened to repeat their actions.

Institutional Impact

The institution itself is not immune to the consequences. Mishandled cases of sexual violence can tarnish a university’s reputation, reduce public trust, and even decrease student enrollment. Moreover, a campus’s inability to create a safe environment can affect partnerships with external entities, such as industry collaborators and government bodies.

Solutions and Hopes

To mitigate and prevent sexual violence on campus, clear policies and supportive reporting systems are essential. Education on gender equality and respect for human rights should also become an integral part of the curriculum. Furthermore, campuses must provide counseling services for victims and enforce strict sanctions against perpetrators.

Sexual violence is not merely an individual problem but a collective one that demands collaboration from all parties. With concerted efforts, campuses can become safe, inclusive spaces that foster the development of Indonesia’s younger generation.

Shofiatul Jannah Akademisi & Kader Ulama Perempuan Indonesia (KUPI)

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