Promoting transparency, participation and access to justice in Zambia

Context

The economic and social situation in Zambia is fraught. State resources are scarce, disadvantaged population groups have only limited access to public services and corruption is widespread.

Consequently, it is necessary to demand accountability from those responsible and to promote a constructive dialogue between civil society and the state. In particular, the interests of Zambia’s poor population as well as women, children and young people are not sufficiently taken into account in political decisions and reforms.

Furthermore, access to justice is restricted. Disadvantaged people in particular have little knowledge of their rights and cannot afford legal assistance. The judicial system is overloaded and reforms to modernise the administration and the legal framework are overdue. Backlogs in the courts and an outdated criminal law system with disproportionately high penalties also mean that prisons are overcrowded and inmates’ human rights are violated as a result.

Objective

Laws in Zambia are increasingly drawn up in a participatory and transparent manner, citizens demand rights from the state and access to justice is improved, especially for disadvantaged population groups.

Approach

The project promotes human rights, democracy and the rule of law in Zambia with financial support from the European Union (EU). To this end, it improves access to accountable institutions, the justice system and transparent government decisions for all sections of the population.

1. The project supports civil society in campaigning for better participation and the rule of law at the same time as opposing corruption.
2. It relies on increased dialogue to make the Zambian Government’s law-making processes more transparent and participatory.
3. The project works with the Zambian Ministry of Justice and partner organisations in civil society to give disadvantaged population groups better access to justice, including with the use of digital solutions.

Last update: November 2023