Ethiopia Is About To Introduce A System To Track Sexual Abuse

Ethiopia intends to target abuse prevention and response initiatives with the implementation of its first-ever sexual violence registration system the following year.

Ethiopia is preparing to implement its first-ever system for registering cases of sexual violence, which is expected to go live early next year. The objective of this program is to tackle and prevent sexual assault against women and children, with the goal of having a substantial national impact.

A 2016 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey found that 23% of women aged 15 to 49 had suffered physical abuse and 10% had experienced sexual violence. Remarkably, just 25% of these survivors ask for assistance.

Sexual violence victims are frequently persuaded not to disclose occurrences due to victim-blaming and societal shame, which is reinforced by a variety of sources, such as friends, family, medical professionals, and authorities.

According to reports, the upcoming registry will make it illegal for registered sexual offenders to work in schools, orphanages, or other establishments that serve children.

To further promote accountability and openness, a public page is anticipated to be included in the proposed national sex offense crime registry.