JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS — The Indonesian government has recently enacted Government Regulation (PP) No. 28 of 2024, which implements Law No. 17 of 2023 on Health.

This regulation permits healthcare professionals to perform abortions for victims of rape and sexual violence that result in pregnancy.

According to Article 116 of the regulation, abortion is allowed only in cases of medical emergencies or for victims of rape and other forms of sexual violence. This provision aims to ensure that abortions are carried out strictly under the legal and medical criteria established by the law.

The regulation defines a medical emergency as a situation where the pregnancy endangers the mother’s life or health, or if the fetus has severe, irreparable congenital defects that would prevent it from surviving outside the womb.

“This aims to safeguard both the mother and the fetus in critical medical situations,”

For pregnancies resulting from rape or sexual violence, the regulation requires medical documentation to prove the pregnancy’s age and its connection to the crime. This is intended to ensure that abortions are conducted based on clear evidence and in accordance with legal standards.

This new policy comes amidst widespread debate on abortion legalization in Indonesia. Supporters view this as a positive step towards protecting the rights of sexual violence victims, while opponents express concerns about the ethical and social implications of the regulation.

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) and relevant agencies are expected to monitor the implementation of this regulation and assess its impact on society. Close oversight is necessary to ensure that the regulation is applied correctly and not misused.

With this new regulation, it is hoped that access to safe abortion services for those in need will improve, while balancing individual rights with the prevailing social values in Indonesia. (Uki Ruknuddin)

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