Muhammad Tazkiya Syauqi; Sukri Padil Dongoran
This study examines legal protection for victims of criminal offenses from a victimological perspective, emphasizing the position, rights, and needs of victims within the criminal justice system. Victimology, as a scientific discipline, highlights that victims are not merely objects of crime but subjects who are entitled to protection, restoration, and justice. This research employs a normative juridical method supported by a conceptual and statutory approach to analyze existing legal frameworks governing victim protection. The findings indicate that although legal instruments have provided various forms of protection such as restitution, compensation, and psychological assistance their implementation remains suboptimal due to institutional limitations, lack of awareness, and procedural constraints. From a victimological standpoint, effective protection requires a balanced approach between offender accountability and victim recovery, including recognition of victims' rights, access to justice, and comprehensive rehabilitation. Therefore, strengthening regulations, improving institutional coordination, and adopting a more victim oriented justice system are essential to ensure optimal legal protection for victims of criminal acts.