1st Consultative Meeting on Assessment of the Challenges Faced by GBV Victims in Accessing Justice and Exploring Specialized GBV Chambers in Rwanda
On November 12, 2024, Certa Foundation’s Center for Justice and Advocacy in partnership with Kvinna till Kvinna, successfully held a consultative meeting, under the theme “Assessment of the Challenges Faced by GBV Victims in Accessing Justice and Exploring Specialized GBV Chambers in Rwanda.” The event brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Rwanda National Police (RNP), Rwanda Women’s Network (RWN), the Rwanda Bar Association, Kvinna till Kvinna, community organizations, activists, and pro bono lawyers, alongside policymakers and legal practitioners. Their collective presence underscored a shared commitment to addressing systemic barriers faced by GBV victims.
The meeting commenced with opening remarks by Lydia Taima, Director of the Center for Justice and Advocacy, who emphasized the importance of fostering a victim-centered and consistent judicial approach to GBV cases. Laura Kagina presented findings from the research paper, detailing gaps such as judicial inconsistencies, inadequate victim support, and accessibility challenges for marginalized groups. She underscored the transformative potential of specialized GBV chambers to ensure faster case resolution, enhanced sensitivity, and improved outcomes for survivors.
Key speakers enriched the dialogue with their insights. Representatives from the Rwanda Bar Association highlighted ongoing challenges in evidence handling and the importance of uniform training. Representatives from Rwanda National Police emphasized the importance of a comprehensive research on the already existing framework and to recognize the efforts put in place to address the hurdles that victims of GBV face in accessing justice. Gender activists stressed the urgency of addressing systemic biases and protecting victims from retraumatization during legal proceedings.
This pivotal meeting showcased the critical role of collaboration across sectors to bridge systemic gaps, enhance legal accountability, and improve justice delivery for GBV survivors. By advancing the conversation on specialized chambers, Certa Foundation continues to lead the charge in advocating for a more equitable and victim-centered justice system.