Free Access | January 2025

Addressing Systemic Barriers to GBV Justice in Uganda

Authors/Editors: Sheila Christine Nakkazi

Abstract:

Gender-based violence (GBV) in Uganda significantly affects women, with 23% of women experiencing physical violence and 11% enduring sexual violence. Despite this, only 32% of GBV survivors seek help. The 2024 Annual Crime Report indicates that 75% of domestic violence victims are women. Despite legal frameworks like the 2016 National Policy on GBV, barriers persist, including low reporting rates (14% for physical violence, 5% for sexual violence) and inadequate judicial support. This policy brief identifies deep-rooted societal norms, financial constraints, and judicial inefficiencies as major obstacles preventing survivors from pursuing justice. Recommendations include targeted public awareness campaigns, judicial reforms to expedite GBV cases, and enhanced support services through public-private partnerships to improve survivors’ access to justice.