Judiciary and JSC Collaborate to Improve Handling of Sexual Harassment Complaints

The Judiciary and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in Uganda are seeking to improve the handling of sexual harassment complaints by enhancing reporting channels, avoiding duplicated investigations, and protecting complainants from further trauma. This initiative follows a meeting between the Judiciary's Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee and the JSC. The collaboration aims to address the fear of reporting that remains a major obstacle to tackling sexual harassment within the justice sector.

According to JSC Chairperson, Justice Dr Douglas K. Singiza, the Commission has handled complaints involving judicial officers and support staff. He emphasized the need for accessible, confidential, and trusted mechanisms for victims to report abuse. Singiza noted that the Commission is willing to consider reports submitted by the Judiciary's committee to avoid unnecessary duplication of investigations and reduce the burden on complainants.

Justice Singiza highlighted the importance of preserving the independence of the two institutions while ensuring effective collaboration. He also stressed the need for impartiality and safeguards against conflicts of interest. For instance, complaints involving the JSC Chairperson could be handled by a committee constituted by the Deputy Chairperson. This approach aims to ensure that complaints are handled fairly and efficiently.

To improve reporting, the JSC is considering confidential online reporting mechanisms, including a possible channel linked to the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS). This would allow complaints to be submitted confidentially to the Chairperson. Additionally, the JSC is proposing joint training and comparative research to guide policy development, taking into account different institutional and cultural contexts.

The Chairperson of the Judiciary's Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee, Lady Justice Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza, welcomed the engagement and emphasized the need for joint training to increase awareness of applicable policies. She also committed the committee to reviewing the inter-agency document and pursuing further discussions with the Commission on practical arrangements for collaboration. This collaboration is expected to strengthen institutional responses to complaints.

The engagement was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Justices Muzamiru Kibeedi, Dr Asa Mugenyi, and Flavia Matovu, as well as judicial and JSC officials. The meeting demonstrated a commitment to addressing sexual harassment within the justice sector. By working together, the Judiciary and JSC aim to create a safer and more supportive environment for victims of sexual harassment.

The collaboration between the Judiciary and JSC is a positive step towards addressing the issue of sexual harassment in Uganda's justice sector. Key aspects of the initiative include improved reporting channels, joint training, and inter-agency collaboration. By implementing these measures, the two institutions can ensure that complaints are handled efficiently and effectively, and that victims receive the support they need.

Key points

• The Judiciary and JSC are working together to strengthen coordination in handling sexual harassment complaints.
• The initiative aims to improve reporting channels, avoid duplicated investigations, and protect complainants from further trauma.
• The collaboration includes joint training and inter-agency document outlining how the institutions can work together without compromising their mandates.