The Empowerment of Children’s Forum as Peer Educator of Sexual Health to Prevent Sexual Violence Against Children

Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia

^* Corresponding sriyuliani63@staff.uns.ac.id

Abstract

Sexual violence against children is a social problem needing preventive approach based on community empowerment. Children’s Forum as a forum for children’s participation plays a strategic role as peer educator in sexual health education. Through this approach, children can acquire appropriate information from their adolescent fellows so that their understanding on sexual health and sexual violence prevention can be improved effectively. This research aims to analyze the empowerment strategy the Forum Anak Surakarta has taken as peer educator in improving sexual health literacy, identify educational and peer communication approach, and the challenges and obstacles encountered in acting as peer educator in sexual health education. Using the qualitative approach with case study method, this research studies the experience of Surakarta Children’s Forum through in-depth interview, observation, and analysis of relevant document, either printed or online. The research findings show that the involvement of Children’s Forum as peer educators enhances children and adolescents’ awareness of sexual health and supports efforts to prevent sexual violence. Supporting factor involves the presence of comprehensive capacity reinforcement by self-help group and digital media use as a means of peer education and communication. However, the challenges faced involve cultural resistance against sexual health education and less support to the implementation of sexual health education in educational unit. Considering these findings, the research recommends the reinforcement of multisectoral collaboration involving government institutions, educational institutions, self-help groups, parents, and community leaders to sustain and scale peer-led sexual health intervention that are preventive, transformative, and grounded in the rights of the child.