Online Reporter
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
SPRINGS of Life Zimbabwe has called on Government to ensure that the proposed national Sex Offenders Register balances the protection of the public from sexual violence with safeguarding constitutional rights, including privacy and rehabilitation.
The organisation, which advocates for the rights of marginalised groups, including sex workers, made the call as the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs continues consultations on the establishment of a national sex offenders register.
The proposed registry is part of Government’s broader efforts to strengthen responses to sexual offences and enhance protection of vulnerable groups, with authorities currently engaging stakeholders before deciding on the appropriate legal and operational framework.
Springs of Life Zimbabwe programmes coordinator Ms Precious Msindo said while the organisation supported initiatives aimed at creating safer communities, the development of the register should be guided by human rights principles.
“Sexual violence is a grave violation of human rights, and we support efforts that aim to create a safer environment for all. However, for this registry to be effective and just, principles such as prevention of misuse, data privacy, meaningful stakeholder inclusion and a holistic approach to safety must be central to its development,” Ms Msindo said.
She said clear criteria should be established to ensure that the register targets individuals convicted of serious sexual offences and does not result in unintended consequences for vulnerable communities.
Ms Msindo said the management of information contained in the database would be critical, warning that inadequate safeguards could expose individuals to abuse through unauthorised access or misuse of personal information.
“A register is a powerful tool that requires stringent data protection safeguards. Protection must not come at the cost of an individual’s fundamental constitutional rights to privacy and rehabilitation,” she said.
The organisation said it welcomed Government’s decision to undertake consultations, adding that the voices of communities affected by justice and policing systems should be considered during the law reform process.
Springs of Life Zimbabwe said its experience working with marginalised communities gives it practical insights into challenges relating to safety, access to justice and interactions with law enforcement agencies.
The organisation also argued that a sex offenders register alone would not be enough to address sexual violence, calling for additional measures such as improved survivor support services, comprehensive training for law enforcement officers and interventions targeting factors that contribute to under-reporting of abuse.
“Any forthcoming legal framework should be balanced, evidence-based and genuinely protective of every citizen,” Ms Msindo said.
The Justice Ministry has indicated that consultations on the proposed register are aimed at gathering diverse views on issues including legal safeguards, human rights considerations and implementation mechanisms.
The register remains at the consultation stage, with Government yet to finalise legislation, access protocols and operational arrangements for the proposed system.
Colletta Dube