From Silence to Action: Organizational Communication in University-Based Sexual Violence Prevention

Sexual violence in higher education institutions (HEIs) remains a pervasive issue that threatens student safety and academic success. Despite increasing institutional policies and government interventions, the prevalence of sexual violence remains high, highlighting gaps in prevention strategies and institutional responses. This study examines the role of organizational communication in shaping university-based prevention and response efforts. Using a case study design, this research explores how three universities, Universitas Andalas, Universitas Riau, and Universitas Indonesia manage policy dissemination, interdepartmental coordination, and support mechanisms for survivors. The study applies the Four Flows Theory to analyze how membership negotiation, self-structuring, activity coordination, and institutional positioning influence sexual violence prevention efforts. Findings reveal innovations in institutional communication strategies for prevention, with some universities demonstrating proactive engagement through structured policies and survivor-centered outreach, while others adopt a reactive approach primarily focused on reputation management. The speed of interdepartmental coordination, bureaucratic responsiveness, and victim protection significantly support prevention efforts. Digital communication channels and student-led initiatives play a crucial role in shaping a campus culture that is aware of and responsive to sexual violence. This study emphasizes the need for transparent, survivor-centered, and well-coordinated communication strategies to enhance institutional accountability, student trust, and the prevention of sexual violence in higher HEIs.