An Integrated Model for the Elimination of Domestic Violence in Sorong, Papua

Abstract

. Violence against women is a human right violation and crime against humanity, which demands public attention, including the government and society. The eastern part of Indonesia, including Sorong Papua, is an area that in various aspects is considered to have a very high risk of domestic violence. This study applied qualitative method, in which the data was collected through observation, in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussion, to explore understanding of domestic violence and its’ complexity in Sorong, Papua, and to construct an effective and yet applicable model for the elimination of domestic violence in this area from the perspectives of local government, adat leader, church figures, NGO activists and women group. The results of this study indicate that the understanding of domestic violence is a result of interconnected violences that has been occurred in three areas, i.e. individual violence, cultural violence, and structural violence. This analysis of violence against women is also supported by the informants’ views on its’ complexity, in which this phenomenon is regarded as ‘normal’ because many women in Sorong have been experienced this violence for generations. Based on this understandings and analysis, the model for the elimination of domestic violence in Sorong should consists of interconnected programs on social services for the victims, cultural movements and developing policies that support the elimination of domestic violence.