Participants addressed various aspects of GBV management, including investigation techniques, victim-centered approaches, and institutional responses, all while considering the diverse socio-legal frameworks across the region.
Notably, participants highlighted the importance of tailoring the handbook to specific national laws, such as Zambia’s and Tanzania’s recent legislation protecting women and children, as well as the integration of LGBTQI+ rights as emphasized by South Africa. The conversation also addressed the need to use inclusive language, with a suggestion to replace "victims" with "survivors" in certain contexts, and to differentiate between domestic violence, sexual violence, and child abuse
One participant said, "The handbook should provide guidance on engaging the LGBTQI+ community, include a section on prevention strategies with a focus on empowering society through NPOs, and offer more information on vulnerable groups, particularly elderly women.
In addition to the handbook, UNODC is developing an accompanying eLearning course that will provide law enforcement officers with practical, scenario-based training. The course will be accredited by the University of Cape Town (UCT) and UNODC, with UCT offering ongoing support to learners.
The consultation workshop represents a vital step in enhancing law enforcement’s capacity to address gender-based violence across the SADC region. As the handbook moves closer to completion, it promises to equip law enforcement officers with the tools they need to respond effectively to GBV cases, support survivors, and contribute to the broader goal of a violence-free society.
