Why Zambia Needs a Public Sex Offender Registry: A Call for Accountability and Safety

Gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual offenses remain pervasive issues in Zambia, threatening the safety, dignity, and well-being of countless individuals, particularly women and children. Despite efforts to address these crimes, the lack of a comprehensive, publicly accessible sex offender registry continues to hinder progress in combating sexual violence. The Catalyst Collective believes that the establishment of such a registry is not only necessary but urgent. Drawing on findings from the 2024 Zambia Gender-Based Violence Assessment Report, this article highlights the critical need for a public sex offender registry in Zambia.

The Current State of Sexual Violence in Zambia

The 2024 Zambia Gender-Based Violence Assessment Report paints a grim picture of the prevalence of sexual violence in the country. According to the report, 1 in 3 women in Zambia has experienced sexual violence before the age of 18, while 45% of women aged 15–49 have reported experiencing some form of sexual abuse in their lifetime. Shockingly, only 12% of these cases result in convictions, leaving the majority of perpetrators free to reoffend. These statistics underscore the systemic failures in addressing sexual violence and the urgent need for innovative solutions.

The Case for a Public Sex Offender Registry

A public sex offender registry is a database that contains information about individuals convicted of sexual offenses, accessible to the general public. Such a registry serves multiple purposes:

1. Deterrence of Repeat Offences: Publicly listing convicted sex offenders acts as a deterrent, discouraging potential offenders and reducing the likelihood of repeat offences. Studies from countries with established registries, such as the United States and South Africa, have shown a correlation between public registries and lower rates of recidivism among sex offenders.

2. Empowerment of Communities: A public registry empowers communities to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones. By knowing the identity and location of convicted sex offenders, parents, schools, and community leaders can implement safeguards to prevent further harm.

3. Transparency and Accountability: A registry promotes transparency in the justice system, ensuring that convicted offenders are held accountable for their actions. It also fosters trust between law enforcement agencies and the public, as citizens can see tangible evidence of justice being served.

4. Support for Survivors: For survivors of sexual violence, a public registry can provide a sense of closure and justice. Knowing that their perpetrators are publicly identified and monitored can help survivors rebuild their lives and regain a sense of security.

Addressing Concerns and Challenges

Critics of public sex offender registries often argue that such systems can lead to vigilante justice or the stigmatization of offenders, making rehabilitation difficult. While these concerns are valid, they can be mitigated through careful implementation. For example, the registry can include only the most serious offenders, and access to the database can be restricted to specific purposes, such as background checks for employment in sensitive sectors like education and childcare.

Additionally, the registry should be accompanied by robust rehabilitation programs to support offenders in reintegrating into society. This balanced approach ensures that public safety is prioritized without completely disregarding the rights of offenders.

The Role of the 2024 GBV Assessment Report

The 2024 Zambia Gender-Based Violence Assessment Report provides compelling evidence to support the establishment of a public sex offender registry. Key findings include:

- Low Conviction Rates: Only 12% of reported sexual violence cases result in convictions, highlighting the need for stronger measures to hold perpetrators accountable.

- High Rates of Recidivism: The report notes that many offenders commit multiple acts of sexual violence, often targeting vulnerable populations such as children and persons with disabilities.

- Community Demand for Action: Over 70% of respondents in the report expressed a desire for greater transparency and accountability in addressing sexual violence, with many calling for a public registry.

These findings underscore the urgent need for Zambia to adopt a public sex offender registry as part of a comprehensive strategy to combat GBV and sexual violence.

A Call to Action

The Catalyst Collective urges the Zambian government, civil society organizations, and international partners to prioritize the establishment of a public sex offender registry. This initiative must be accompanied by:

1. Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Ensuring that laws are in place to support the creation and maintenance of the registry.

2. Capacity Building: Training law enforcement agencies and judicial officers to effectively manage and utilise the registry.

3. Public Awareness Campaigns : Educating citizens about the registry and how to use it responsibly.

4. Rehabilitation Programs : Providing support for offenders to reduce the risk of reoffending.

Conclusion

The establishment of a public sex offender registry in Zambia is not just a policy recommendation; it is a moral imperative. The 2024 Zambia Gender-Based Violence Assessment Report highlights the devastating impact of sexual violence on individuals and communities, as well as the systemic failures in addressing these crimes. A public registry would serve as a powerful tool for transparency, accountability, and community empowerment, helping to break the cycle of violence and create a safer Zambia for all.

The time to act is now. Let us work together to ensure that justice is served, survivors are supported, and future generations are protected from the scourge of sexual violence.

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How to Donate

To support The Catalyst Collective, you can make a direct deposit using the banking details or mobile money below: 

- Bank Name: Stanbic Bank Zambia 

- Account Name: Carol Phiri 

- Account Number: 9130006654278 

- Airtel Money: Carol Phiri

- 260972366581

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Every contribution matters and brings us one step closer to achieving our mission. Thank you for believing in our vision and for standing with us as we create positive change. Let’s build a better tomorrow—together!

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