Indonesia’s Discriminatory Virginity Testing: A Violation of Women’s Rights

Indonesia was a discriminatory practice against women seeking to join the police and military. Learn about its history, impact, and the fight for women's rights.">

For decades, female applicants to the Indonesian National Police (POLRI) and the indonesian National Armed Forces faced a discriminatory practice: virginity testing. Officially ended in June 2021, the repercussions of this practice continue to affect Indonesian society, highlighting the ongoing struggle for women’s rights and equality.

The history of Virginity Testing in Indonesia

Since 1965, virginity testing was a common practice within the Indonesian National Police and Armed forces . This practice stemmed from a patriarchal view that considered women as second-class citizens, judging their worth based on their perceived sexual purity. The tests aimed to assess a woman’s past sexual behavior by examining her hymen, with the expectation that female recruits should have no prior sexual experience.Women who failed were frequently enough deemed “broken” or “worthless.”

Did You know? Virginity testing has been documented in at least 20 countries worldwide, revealing the global persistence of patriarchal norms.

Methods of Virginity Testing

Two primary methods were used for virginity testing. The first involved a visual inspection of the hymen for tears or to assess the size of the opening. The second, more invasive method, involved the insertion of two fingers into the vagina. Medical professionals widely discredit both techniques, as the presence or condition of the hymen is not a reliable indicator of virginity. Some women are born without a hymen, while others may experience hymenal damage due to accidents or other non-sexual activities.

Human Rights Violations and International Condemnation

Human Rights Watch (HRW) exposed the practice of virginity tests by Indonesian security forces in 2014, revealing the government’s failure to effectively stop the practice. The tests were described by many women as painful, humiliating, and degrading, leading to long-term anxiety and distrust toward state institutions. Such practices violate Article 7 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), ratified by Indonesia, which protects the physical and mental integrity of individuals .

Virginity testing also contradicts the principles of bodily autonomy and the right to privacy. As a negative right, the state should not interfere with an individual’s freedom and privacy. By conducting these tests, the Indonesian state abused its power and violated women’s basic human rights, as guaranteed by Article 3 of the ICCPR and Article 71 of the Human Rights Law.

The End of Virginity Testing and Lingering Impacts

In June 2021, Army Chief General Andika Perkasa addressed the discriminatory selection process, officially ending virginity testing for female recruits. He emphasized the importance of focusing on physical ability and academic performance rather than conducting medical checkups or virginity tests. this decision followed years of advocacy and protest, highlighting the human rights violations inherent in the practice.

Pro Tip: The “protest school” approach, which raises awareness of human rights violations, played a meaningful role in ending virginity testing in Indonesia.

Despite the official ban, the long-lasting impact of virginity testing remains deeply rooted in Indonesian society. The practice has contributed to a societal mindset that values women based on their “virginity,” leading to continued stigmatization and mistreatment. The absence of a formal apology or public redress mechanisms further exacerbates the issue, failing to fulfill the right to remedy guaranteed by international human rights law.

The Path Forward: Redress and Equality

To fully address the legacy of virginity testing, Indonesia must take comprehensive steps to ensure redress, equality, and the elimination of all remnants of virginity-based discrimination. This includes providing support and compensation to victims, implementing educational programs to challenge harmful stereotypes, and enacting policies that promote gender equality in all aspects of society.

By addressing these issues, Indonesia can demonstrate its commitment to upholding human rights and creating a more just and equitable society for all its citizens.

what other discriminatory practices against women persist in different parts of the world? How can international cooperation help eradicate these practices?

Disclaimer: This article provides details about human rights issues and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Consult with qualified professionals for specific guidance.

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