The Role of Witness Protection Agencies for Victims of Rape in Sorong City

This study aims to analyze the implementation of Law Number 31 of 2014 concerning the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) for victims of rape and to identify obstacles in its implementation in the Sorong City Police jurisdiction. The method used is juridical-empirical research with a qualitative approach, through field studies and interviews with the police and victims. The novelty of this study lies in its focus on Sorong City, which has not been widely researched, as well as its integrative approach that combines normative aspects with the reality of the implementation of legal protection for victims of sexual violence. The results of the study show that although the LPSK has provided various protection programs such as procedural rights, legal and physical protection, medical and psychological assistance, psychosocial rehabilitation, and facilitation of restitution, the implementation is still far from optimal. Some of the main obstacles faced include weak coordination between institutions, limited information for victims, and complicated administrative processes. In conclusion, legal protection for rape victims by the LPSK has not been implemented effectively, so it is necessary to strengthen the implementation mechanism and improve synergy between stakeholders.