The legislature has passed a revision to the Sexual Assault Crime Prevention Act that will help protect victims’ identities.
Under the revision passed Tuesday, the identity of victims of sexual assault, including names and other identifiable information, will not be disclosed to the public. Violators who reveal their identity will be fined up to NT$100,000 (US$ 3,333).
The revision was proposed by a female lawmaker. It is aimed to provide a friendly legal environment for victims as their personal information and rights have often been abused on the Internet.
Opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lawmaker Yu Mei-nu said the revision offers victims more needed protection.
“Over the past 15 years, 86 of reported cases of sexual assault were in prison and detention centers. Many sex offenders who use their power to [assault women] remain hidden," said Yu.
"Therefore, the revision requires that correctional officers are responsible for reporting cases. I hope that all cases of sexual assault that happen in prison and detention centers can be reported immediately and that victims will receive counseling and legal aid during the investigation.”