Context
The incidence of sexual and gender-based violence in Tanzania is significantly higher than the regional average. It most frequently manifests itself in the form of sexual and violent assault (often perpetrated by current or former partners), psychological abuse and harmful traditional practices. Along with women and girls, it also affects boys, particularly at school and in family settings.
Meanwhile, members of vulnerable population groups are especially likely to lack awareness of their rights and when they have been violated. At the same time, an effort needs to be made to build specific expertise in law enforcement – particularly in establishing a victim- and survivor-centred approach – and to expand access to justice and legal advice, as well as to improve the support provided to survivors of violence in cases involving court proceedings. Tanzania's medical care providers, social and mental health services and law enforcement authorities are also not sufficiently networked to offer victims the best possible assistance. Furthermore, the social discourse on these topics and the importance of renouncing gender-based violence have not yet entered the broader public consciousness.
Objective
The conditions for women and children to access justice, especially in cases involving sexual and gender-based violence, are improved.
