Spotlight Initiative Transforms Grand Gedeh County Court System to Tackle SGBV
In a groundbreaking effort to address the pressing issue of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Liberia, the Spotlight Initiative has successfully transformed the court system in Grand Gedeh County. With its focus on funding and support, the initiative has brought about significant changes that enable a more effective response to cases of SGBV, particularly rape.
Badio Quiah, the Clerk of Court for the Ministry of Justice at the 7th Judicial Circuit Court in Grand Gedeh County, has witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by the court system in handling SGBV cases. Prior to the intervention of the Spotlight Initiative, many of these cases were left uninvestigated, leaving victims without justice and vulnerable to further harm.
According to a 2016 UN study, only 2 percent of rape cases reported in Liberia resulted in a conviction, a statistic that aligns with global trends. This lack of justice created a culture of silence, with survivors fearful of coming forward and perpetrators rarely held accountable.
Recognizing the urgent need for change, the Spotlight Initiative has taken decisive action to improve outcomes for rape survivors. By providing funding and support to the court system in Grand Gedeh County, in addition to enhancing the knowledge of magistrates and court workers on handling SGBV cases, the initiative has made substantial progress.
Key stakeholders, including magistrates, clerks of court, bailiffs, national police, and members of civil society organizations, have undergone specialized training on coordinating the response to SGBV cases. This integrated approach ensures that survivors receive the necessary support and protection throughout the legal process.
Furthermore, the Spotlight Initiative has established a one-stop center that offers medical, legal, and justice support to SGBV survivors. Additionally, a Criminal Court has been renovated to better handle such cases, with the inclusion of an in-camera victim protection room on the court premises, ensuring privacy during trial proceedings.
These comprehensive changes have resulted in a significantly empowered court system in Grand Gedeh County, equipped to handle SGBV cases, safeguard the rights of survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable. As a result, citizens now feel more confident and satisfied to come forward with cases of SGBV, rape, and domestic violence.
While progress has been made, Badio Quiah highlights the need for additional funding for mobility and transportation. This would enable courts to extend their reach to remote areas within the county. Moreover, the provision of additional equipment would expedite the documentation process for cases.
Looking ahead, Mr. Quiah remains hopeful that the Spotlight Initiative will continue its support for the court system in Grand Gedeh County, ensuring ongoing access to justice for victims of SGBV and rape. He emphasizes that education plays a pivotal role in understanding the dangers of SGBV and how to report or prevent it. The Spotlight Initiative has made significant contributions by providing citizens with the necessary knowledge and understanding to combat SGBV and rape.
With its transformative impact, the Spotlight Initiative serves as a strong model for addressing SGBV and promoting justice in Liberia. By prioritizing the needs of survivors, empowering the court system, and fostering educational initiatives, progress is being made in the fight against SGBV. As stakeholders and communities continue to work together, the hope for a safer future for all grows stronger.
