SDG16+ and Transitional Justice in Uganda: A Review of the Gains and Obstacles

This report assesses Uganda’s progress toward achieving the SDG 16+ targets through a transitional justice lens. It highlights where meaningful progress has been registered, persistent gaps and challenges, and the critical contribution of civil society organizations (CSOs) to the realization of the SDG16+ targets. 

The Government of Uganda has demonstrated its commitment to the realization of the SDGs through policymaking, resource allocation, and the establishment of the multi-stakeholder National SDG Coordination Framework, which is supported by the SDG Secretariat at the Office of the Prime Minister. In the most recent Voluntary National Review, Uganda received an overall score of 54.88 percent, reflecting both the progress made on some targets and the need to accelerate progress in other areas. Notably, progress on SDG16 was assessed as  “stagnated,” underscoring the need for additional investment. 

This report reviews targets for Goals 16, 10 and 5, which contribute to peace, justice, and inclusion. It finds that while some gains have been made on Goal 5, mainly through the adoption of legal frameworks that address discrimination against women and girls (Target 5.1), violence against women and girls remains pervasive (Targets 5.2 and 16.1). Similarly, despite the enactment of laws and policies to ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities, income inequality and poverty remain prevalent, especially in post-conflict regions (Target 10.3). 

Furthermore, while Uganda has legal frameworks in place to promote the rule of law and access to justice, the discriminatory application of laws and the high cost of justice remain a challenge (Target 16.3). Efforts to strengthen legal identity through the National Identification and Registration Authority have expanded the registration of births and deaths, yet fewer than half of the population has been registered. Marginalized groups including children born of war, the elderly, and minority communities have faced significant barriers including stringent registration requirements, a lack of information, and difficulty accessing the registration centers. 

The report concludes with actionable recommendations to meet the SDG targets, including fast-tracking enabling policies and legislation; building the capacity of institutions to reach the poor and marginalized; promoting coordinated action between government and CSOs, especially on data collection; and promoting a culture of peace and non-violence, gender equality, and inclusion.