Dear friends, Would you demand justice if more than half of the women and girls in Belgium were subjected to physical or sexual violence? Fifty-one percent of the Uganda's women will experience physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives. That's more than twice the percentage of women and girls who reportedly experience such violence in the United States! Crimes against women and girls in Uganda are often committed with little fear of prosecution or serious punishment. According to a 2010 survey by the London-based Agency for Cooperation and Research in Development: "A review of the types of crimes cases that are presented in the courts indicates that domestic violence, rape and defilement [an unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 18 years] are the highest reported offences with minimal convictions. In addition, the analysis presented in the audit demonstrates that in very rare circumstances will courts impose the maximum sentence to the perpetrators." Six years after the survey, gender-based violence is still common in the country and far too many perpetrators still commit violence against women and girls with impunity. That's why one of Uganda's top prosecutors recently called for special courts to help ensure justice for Ugandan survivors of gender-based violence. It's also why Care2 super-activist Lynn H. has started a petition in support of the prosecutor's effort. This proposal really can make a difference. Having a specific court to tackle gender-based violence has shown promise in Guatemala and other countries. With your support, Uganda's advocates for women and girls can succeed too. In solidarity,  | | Chris B.
The Care2 Petitions Team |
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