When Orphanages Are No Longer Safe

The alleged abuse case at an orphanage in Buleleng, Bali, is another reminder that institutional care is failing children. Authorities have suspended its license after reports of physical and sexual violence, with victims moved to safe houses and alternative care.

But this is not an isolated case it reflects a deeper, systemic problem.

Orphanages are often built with good intentions, yet they create environments vulnerable to abuse, power imbalance, and weak oversight. Children in these settings are often powerless, especially when harm comes from those meant to protect them.

More importantly, most children in orphanages are not without families. They are separated due to poverty and lack of support. This means the real solution is not institutional care, but strengthening families.

Even without abuse, institutional upbringing can harm a child’s emotional and cognitive development. When violence occurs, the damage becomes far more severe.

This case should push us to rethink the system:support families, stop expanding orphanages, and invest in family-based care.

Because ultimately, children don’t need institutions they need safe, loving families.

Sources : https://denpasar.kompas.com/read/2026/04/01/153802478/dinsos-bekukan-izin-panti-asuhan-di-buleleng-buntut-dugaan-kekerasan-anak