A Study of Domestic Violence Legislation in Lusaka-Zambia

Abstract

Domestic Violence (DV) against children is a huge concern in Zambia today. It is a violation of rights while negative effects are well established. One way to ensure children are protected is through legislation as it punishes offenders, and protects victims. We assessed the extent to which legislation has achieved the above goals in Lusaka District using qualitative and quantitative methods. Open ended interviews and document analysis were used for data collection. The results showed that; legislation presently does not adequately protect child victims, is not versatile as a deterrent measure; law and policy do not complement and not enough to guarantee protection. Implications include; less confidence in the justice system, increased under reporting and a message sent to perpetrators that DV is acceptable while poverty increases among families because violence makes it harder for them to get out.

Key words, Domestic Violence. Legislation. Protect. Children. Victims