Locationsdr. Boge Priyo Nugroho: Pioneering Gender-Based Violence Response in Jakarta
December 2, 2024
One of UNDP's Changemakers in Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls
Violence against women and children remains a pressing issue in Jakarta, and at the heart of the response is dr. Boge Priyo Nugroho Sp, FM, a forensic and medicolegal specialist at Tarakan Regional General Hospital (RSUD Tarakan). Since 2018, dr. Boge has been transforming the way survivors of violence—particularly women and children—access care. His work bridges medicine, forensics, and advocacy, creating a safe haven for survivors while setting new standards for comprehensive, survivor-centered services.
“Creating a safe and comfortable space for survivors to share their experiences is crucial,” says dr. Boge, reflecting his dedication to fostering trust and security for his patients. In 2018, he spearheaded the establishment of the Bunga Tanjung Integrated Care Center (PPT Bunga Tanjung) at Tarakan Hospital. This hospital-based crisis center provides specialized services for survivors of GBV, including forensic examinations, medical treatments, counseling, and legal support.
Collaborating with various institutions, including the police and the Center for Integrated Services for the Empowerment of Women and Children (P2TP2A) and UNDP Indonesia, PPT Bunga Tanjung serves as a model for interdisciplinary GBV response. Survivors receive holistic care under one roof, ensuring they are not retraumatized by navigating multiple institutions.
Advocating for Systemic Change
GBV is pervasive yet underreported, making it an iceberg phenomenon. dr. Boge notes a troubling trend where some victims later perpetuate violence, driven not by revenge but by unresolved trauma and curiosity.
Through PPT Bunga Tanjung, survivors can access medical and forensic evaluations that aid their recovery and provide evidence for legal proceedings. These evaluations often become pivotal in holding perpetrators accountable and supporting survivors in their pursuit of justice.
dr. Boge in his daily responsibilities at RSUD Bunga Tanjung Jakarta
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges, as lockdowns led to increased GBV incidents while discouraging survivors from seeking help. “We noticed a decline in the number of patients coming in, likely due to fears of contracting the virus,” dr. Boge observes. Despite these challenges, he ensured that the center remained operational 24/7, providing free services to all survivors, including non-residents of Jakarta who experienced violence within the city.
dr. Boge also prioritized health protocols to protect staff and patients during the pandemic. Personal protective equipment (PPE) became standard for all medical examinations, especially in cases of sexual violence. “Our goal is to ensure that survivors feel safe, both from the virus and from further trauma,” he explains.
Beyond treating survivors, dr. Boge is a staunch advocate for systemic change. Drawing inspiration from global best practices, such as South Korea’s Sunflower Centers, he has implemented strategies to strengthen Jakarta’s GBV response. His efforts align with Jakarta’s vision of becoming a safe city for women and children, a goal he passionately supports.
“My hope is that survivors feel empowered to report their experiences and seek help without fear or stigma,” he says. “By addressing the root causes of violence and providing comprehensive care, we can make this vision a reality.”
dr. Boge’s work at PPT Bunga Tanjung is a testament to the power of compassionate care and collaboration in tackling GBV. His unwavering commitment to justice and healing inspires hope for a safer future for women and children in Jakarta.