This series of 4 papers is aimed primarily at the legal profession. In this series of papers, we propose reforms to improve access to justice in Namibia in respect of four different topics.
This series of 4 papers is aimed primarily at the legal profession. In this series of papers, we propose reforms to improve access to justice in Namibia in respect of four different topics.
This series of 4 papers is aimed primarily at the legal profession. In this series of papers, we propose reforms to improve access to justice in Namibia in respect of four different topics.
This series of 4 papers is aimed primarily at the legal profession. In this series of papers, we propose reforms to improve access to justice in Namibia in respect of four different topics.
Addressing gender-based violence through community empowerment
This magazine-style booklet provides a report on nationwide consultations on gender-based conducted by the Legal Assistance Centre. The magazine gives examples of what different communities are doing to address this problem, as well as giving suggestions for activities and providing information about the law on gender-based violence. The magazine contains pages on domestic violence, rape, equality in marriage, parent-child relationships, elder abuse, alcohol and witchcraft. The magazine can be u
Advocacy in action: a guide to influencing decision-making in Namibia (2004, rev.ed 2007)
This manual is aimed primarily at NGOs and grassroots-based groups who want to improve their advocacy skills. It will also be of interest to political office-bearers. It contains concrete, practical information about advocacy strategies such as petitions, press conferences, public demonstrations and letter-writing campaigns as well as detailed information on government structures, Parliamentary procedures and a detailed description of how laws are made.
The media includes newspaper, magazines, radio and television. (There is a separate factsheet on using online social media). You can use media to convey messages or to gain publicity for a cause.
Personal meetings with decisions-makers can be an effective form of advocacy since this strategy puts you directly in touch with the person or body with power to take action. A personal meeting may help you figure out what type of campaign will be most likely to convince the decision-maker to act to advance your goals.
Advocacy in Action: Participating in public hearings
Both Houses of Parliament, the National Assembly and the National Council, have committees which sometimes consider proposed laws or issues of public interest. These committees often travel around the country to hold public hearings. Find out how to use this opportu8nity to make your views known effectively.
Petitions are a way to show that there is widespread degree of support for an issue. A petition can be sent to any decision-maker. There are special rules for petitions to Parliament.
Advocacy is individual or group efforts to influence a law, a policy or some other decision. Advocacy can be directed at government bodies or officials at various levels, or at other institutions or individuals.
Advocacy in Action: Public marches and demonstrations
Public events about an issue might take the form of marches, demonstrations or vigils. You can use public events to inform and educate the public. There are certain legal requirements for public events.
Online tools are an effective way to share information with many people in different locations quickly and cheaply. You can use online methods to provide information, photos, videos and notices about events to many people at once.
MONOGRAPH NO.4: Studies show that underage drinking in Namibia is a significant problem. This monograph reviews what the law says on underage drinking and compares it to international legislation. The report makes recommendations for strengthening the law. The monograph is suitable for policy makers, stakeholders and researchers.
MONOGRAPH NO 4: This report considers the prevalence of baby-dumping in Namibia. It examines Namibian case law and the legal approaches taken in countries such as the United States, Zimbabwe and Australia. The report makes recommendations on how to address baby dumping and infanticide. It is suitable for policy makers, stakeholders and researchers.
The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare and the Ministry of Youth, National Service, Sport and Culture with the support of UNICEF and the Legal Assistance Centre conducted a national survey to ask the public why baby dumping is such a problem in Namibia and how the government can address it. This factsheet reports the results of this survey.
This booklet explains what bail is, why people accused of certain crimes are allowed back into the community while they await trial and what conditions the accused must follow while on bail. It also gives guidance on what complainants can do if they feel threatened or in danger from the accused while he is out on bail. This short booklet is suitable for the general public.
The poster briefly summarises the provisions of the Labour Act 2007 relating to gender. The poster provides information about sex discrimination, family responsibilities, compassionate leave, maternity leave and sexual harassment at work.
The poster briefly summarises key rules from the Labour Act 2007 and the Social Security Act 1994 relating to all employees, including domestic workers. The poster provides information about working hours, registering for social security benefits, annual leave, sick leave, maternity leave and compassionate leave.
The poster briefly explains the meaning of domestic violence, where to report a situation of domestic violence and how to get a protection order or a formal warning.
The poster briefly lists details of what rape is, what actions someone who is raped should take and what medical treatment is available to try to prevent pregnancy or the risk of serious infection as a result of the rape.
Basic facts on the Combating of Rape Act: Fact Sheet
The poster briefly lists details of what rape is, what actions someone who is raped should take and what medical treatment is available to try to prevent pregnancy or the risk of serious infection as a result of the rape.
The poster briefly summarises the main provisions in the Maintenance Act including who has the right to maintenance, who can claim maintenance, and how a claim can be made. It also lists what can be done if the defendant stops paying maintenance.
The poster briefly summarises the main provisions in the Married Persons Equality Act. The poster explains that the Act has made husbands and wives equal in the eyes of the law. It also outlines the two common marital property schemes of in and out of community of property.
The poster briefly summarises the main provisions in the Married Persons Equality Act. The poster explains that the Act has made husbands and wives equal in the eyes of the law. It also outlines the two common marital property schemes of in and out of community of property.
Beliefs and attitudes toward Gender Sexuality and Traditions
MONOGRAPH NO. 5: This study reports on research assessing young peoples? attitudes towards: o traditional practices, especially those related to gender, such as polygyny and males being heads of households, attitudes towards sexual rights, including attitudes on controversial issues such as homosexuality and reproductive rights, o sexual transgressions, such as rape and sexual abuse, and attitudes and knowledge about sexual behaviours such as masturbation and oral sex. The information can be use
Better Way (DVD in english, oshiwambo, oshiherero, or damara-Nama)
This film, set in a rural school, is an educative tool with a compelling story. Paulus and his friends are subjected to almost daily beatings at school and at home. When Paulus comes across a comic about alternatives to corporal punishment, he sets out to change the attitudes of his teachers and his family. In the humorous events that follow, the audience learns that there are better methods for disciplining children. Paulus challenges the norms of his community in a daring attempt to change the
Author:
N/A
Topic:
Corporal punishment
Type:
Visual
Time:
40:10:00 min
Date: N/A
Languages: N/A
Price: N$ 90.00
Born in Etosha: Homage to the cultural heritage of the Hai||om
This book is an indegenous historical resource on the Etosha National Park, a documentation of the of Hai||om cultural heritage.
This is a civic education video about the three branches of government which are the executive branch, legislative and judiciary.
Author:
N/A
Topic:
Government
Type:
Visual
Time:
2:09:00 min
Date: N/A
Languages: N/A
Price: N$ 0.00
Briefing document on child marriage and teen pregnancy
Short briefing document on this issue, summarising recent statistics and including information on what the Child Care and Protection Act says about child marriage.
Can I claim maintenance if the father of my chid is not working?
This comic-style factsheet explains that a mother (or anyone else caring for the child or who has the interests of the child in mind) can apply for a maintenance order even if the child?s parent is unemployed as money is not the only form of maintenance support that the court can order.
These five commercial-length spots highlight subtle forms of child abuse which are more likely to be widespread than the most serious kinds of abuse ? destroying a child?s self-esteem by shouting and using abusive language, failure to vaccinate children, keeping children out of school to attend to household chores, failure to pay maintenance and drinking and smoking during pregnancy. Each slot begins with the question ?What is child abuse?? and ends with the tagline ?This is child abuse. Let?s l
Combating of harassment and child sexual exploitation
The paper provides a comparative review of legislation on stalking and physical harassment of adults and children, cyber harassment of adults and children, physical and online grooming, and sexual exploitation of children. The objective is to guide potential law reform in Namibia.
Comic: A land for women: Womens rights to Communal land in Namibia
In Namibia, all communal land is kept in trust by the State for the benefi t of the traditional
communities living on it. The State administers this land in order to promote economic and
social development of the people of Namibia, including women.
Two women swap ideas about disciplining their young sons. They discuss how hitting children may lead them to think that violence will solve all problems. One of the women has been to a workshop on alternative forms of discipline and she tells her friend about some of the things she has learnt. Her friend decides to try the same approach.
Two fathers discuss the problems they have with the behaviour of their teenage sons. One explains that he is trying to avoid hitting his son, Isak, as he wants Isak to learn that it is better to talk about problems than to respond with violence. He gives his friend some ideas to try.
Two sisters experience very difference situations when their dates ask them to have sex ?in one story, the guy does not take no for an answer and pressurises the sister, in the other story, the guy agrees that he is not ready to have sex either and they agree to wait. The comic provides information on what to do if you have been raped.
A social worker takes steps to protect a child after his teacher reports that his welfare is being threatened by his mother?s drinking. This comic explains how children can be temporarily removed from their homes for their protection and placed by court order in alternative care. It also explores the possibility of family reunification.
A single mother who died wanted her brother to be the guardian of her child, but she did not make a written will. The biological father also wants to be the child?s guardian, even though he has not shown previous interest in his son. The children?s commissioner considers the two competing applications for guardianship and makes a decision based on what is in the child?s best interests.
Comic: CCPA: Kinship care - a new concept under the Child Care and Protection Act
A single mother and her aunt approach a social worker to make a kinship care agreement. The mother would like to pursue her education but cannot take care of her daughter at the same time. The rules on kinship care cover situations where families make their own arrangements for children to live with someone other than their parents. But what happens when the kinship care-giver and the child?s parent disagree on child-rearing issues?
Comic: CCPA: putting the child first - parental rights and responsibilities for children born outside marriage
Two parents approach a social worker to help them decide who will have custody of their child. They make a decision based on the child?s best interests and figure out ways to co-operate with each other
Four children of different ages try to get jobs. The two older children learn that whilst they can be employed, there are some age-related restrictions. Although the two younger children are too young to work legally, the youngest child is hired to make bricks instead of going to school. The comic explains how this is a form of child labour and the penalties for ignoring the laws about child work.
An engaged couple investigate the different choices they need to make when planning their marriage, and decide how they will deal with their property and income as a married couple.
Maria, a single mother, cannot afford to buy food for her child. When she sees a poster about maintenance she decides to apply to the court for a maintenance order. The comic follows Maria through the application process.
Mary and Festus are suffering domestic violence from Mary?s husband, Peter. A neighbour suspects that there is a problem and encourages Mary to apply for a protection order to make Peter stop the beatings. She emphasises that the application process is free and straightforward and that the assistance of a lawyer is not required.
ANIMATION: The comic story on how to get a protection order has been converted into a short 2-3 minute animation.
Author:
N/A
Topic:
Protection order, Domestic violence
Type:
Visual
Time:
2.3 min
Date: 2010
Languages: N/A
Price: N$ 0.00
Comic: How to get social security benefits for maternity leave
Hilda is a pregnant domestic worker whose employer refuses to give her maternity leave. With the help of a friend, Hilda learns about the law on maternity leave and how it applies to domestic workers. The comic explains how to register for social security benefits and claim maternity leave payments. It also has a sample employment contract covering maximum working hours, overtime pay & annual leave.
Grace has not registered the birth of her child. Her friend encourages her to do so, explaining why it is important for all children to have a birth certificate. The father of Grace?s child does not want to help Grace to register the birth of her child but Grace?s friend reminds her that she can register the birth of her child by herself. The comic explains how, where and when registration can take place and what documents are needed.
Two cousins are orphaned when their parents are killed in a car crash. They are sent to live with different relatives. In their new homes they experience abusive treatment themselves or witness abuse of others. Various ways to address their difficulties are revealed.
Two cousins are orphaned when their parents are killed in a car crash. They are sent to live with different relatives. In their new homes they experience abusive treatment themselves or witness abuse of others. Various ways to address their difficulties are revealed.
Comic: If you really loved me: the problem of date rape
Two sisters experience very difference situations when their dates ask them to have sex ?in one story, the guy does not take no for an answer and pressurises the sister, in the other story, the guy agrees that he is not ready to have sex either and they agree to wait. The comic provides information on what to do if you have been raped.
Marthas sister is worried about her. Her husband Simon is abusing her and having unprotected sex with other woman. Her sister encourages her to visit a clinic. At the clinic she gets pregnancy and HIV tests. The nurse explains to her what anti-retroviral medication is and how she can protect her unborn child if she is HIV positive.
Marthas sister is worried about her. Her husband Simon is abusing her and having unprotected sex with other woman. Her sister encourages her to visit a clinic. At the clinic she gets pregnancy and HIV tests. The nurse explains to her what anti-retroviral medication is and how she can protect her unborn child if she is HIV positive.
In 2013 the government eliminated mandatory contributions to School Development Funds. Voluntary contributions may be allowed if they are truly voluntary, and if they were agreed on by the parents at a school meeting. But there must be no discrimination against the learner if the voluntary contribution is not paid. This comic explains what parents should do if the school still expects parents to pay a fee.
This comic focuses on dealing with the challenges faced by learners due to a shortage of textbooks, and on how a school-feeding programme can assist orphans and vulnerable children.
This comic explains why all schools need to implement a health programme which includes monitoring, prevention, treatment and health education for the learners.
Comic: Mental health matters: recognising and responding
The story in this comic addresses depression and State President?s Decision Patients (persons suffering from mental illness who are confined after they commit a crime). The comic combats the myth that mental illness results from witchcraft, and includes facts about mental health in Namibia.
Comic: New approach to the Prevention and management of learner pregnancy in schools
A young, pregnant teenager realises that her pregnancy could prevent her finishing Grade 12 and end her chances of getting a good job. She consults the Teacher Counsellor at school and learns that she has more options than she thought in terms of the new learner pregnancy policy.
Comic: Our shared duty to protect Namibia's children: reporting child abuse and neglect
This comic covers mandatory and voluntary reporting of a person who subjects a child to social, religious or cultural practices that are harmful to the child’s well-being commits a crime. The penalty is a fine of up to N$50 000 or imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.
Esther?s mother receives a call from the school to inform her that Esther is falling behind with her schoolwork. Esther?s mother tries to find out what is wrong and learns that her daughter is sneaking out in the evening to visit a local shebeen. The mother confronts the shebeen owner and together they agree on how to stop the problem. The mother also speaks to her daughter about why underage drinking is a problem and how she can socialise with her friends in other ways.
Comic: Promoting safer schools through the School Codes of Conduct
Jessica and Jane are being bullied at school. They tell their teacher but he does not do anything about it. Their friend tells them about the School Codes of Conduct for Learners and Teachers and encourages them to speak to the Principal. The Principal takes the matter very seriously, stops the bullying and reminds the teacher about his obligations under the code of conduct.
Comic: Protecting children from exploitation: child labour and child activities
Children below age 18 must have the consent of their parent or guardian to participate in certain activities regulated by the Child Care and Protection Act, whether or not they are intended for profit. There are also rules about child participation in certain activities, designed to protect children?s health and safety.
Comic: Providing for the people you love after you die
Sarah goes to a workshop and learns about the importance of making a will. She discusses what she has learnt with her family although her husband is very resistant to the idea on the grounds that it is against his culture. The comic also explains the steps involved in making a will.
This comic concerns a couple whose relationship has deteriorated since their marriage. After a disagreement, the husband rapes his wife and storms out of the house. The story follows his wife as she reports the rape, has the required examination to gather evidence for a trial and receives treatment to prevent possible HIV infection. It explains the subsequent court processes and special rules put in place to make the trial less distressing for the victim.
Sarah, a teenage girl, is raped by her brothers friend. The comic traces her progress as she reports the rape and goes to the hospital for help and treatment. She is then pressed by her family to withdraw the case. The pros and cons of continuing the court process are explored.
Sylvia is receiving unwanted advances from her male supervisor at work. She is afraid she will have to give up her job but a friend explains the law on sexual harassment in the workplace. With her friend?s support she stands up for her rights
Sarah is in an abusive relationship, her partner Tom beats her up and forces her to have sex with him. Out of fear Sarah agrees to everything he wants so that he does not leave her. Sarah does not know how she will fend for herself and her children if Tom leaves her or if she walks out of the relationship. Sarah?s friend gives her life-changing information about domestic violence, maintenance
A group of children talk about the problems they face in their respective schools. An older child overhears them and tells them how they can hold their schools accountable and how they as students can also act to improve the situation.
Comic: Timber troubles: a Namibian tale and the fight for our forests
This comic is intended to inspire and motivatte to know your rights and to protect Namibias environment, preserving our forests for future generations.
Comic: What are your options when you find out you are pregnant and you do not want the baby?
A young single woman faced with an unwanted pregnancy explores alternatives to dumping her baby. The comic provides information on foster care, adoption, child maintenance, abortion and state maintenance grants.
Comic: What does gender equality mean in a relationship?
A married couple consider their different roles within marriage and discover that their life is better when they work as a team and share responsibilities more equally.
Both adults and children can be victims of trafficking. The story in the comic involves child trafficking and is based on actual trafficking cases in Namibia.
Comic: What to do if someone stops paying maintenance
John has stopped paying maintenance for his son Sam even though there is a maintenance order in place. Sarah, Sam?s mother, reports this to the court and the Maintenance Officer investigates the case. We discover why John thought he could stop paying and the solution the Magistrate decides on.
Comic: What to do if someone stops paying maintenance
John has stopped paying maintenance for his son Sam even though there is a maintenance order in place. Sarah, Sam?s mother, reports this to the court and the Maintenance Officer investigates the case. We discover why John thought he could stop paying and the solution the Magistrate decides on.
Corporal punishment: National and International perspectives
The publication provides relevant information on corporal punishment to policy makers, stakeholders and people interested in the topic. It examines national and international literature, legislation and public opinion in Namibia. New data collected about the opinions of Namibian children is also presented.
Corporal punishment: National and International perspectives
The Legal Assistance Centre has summarised key information from the detailed research report on this topic into a more concise research brief, intended for use by policymakers and stakeholders.
Customary Laws on Inheritance in Namibia: Issues and questions for consideration in developing new legislation
After surveying Namibias relevant Constitutional and international obligations, this report examines current statutory law on inheritance and reports findings on customary law based on qualitative field research in three communities ? a matrilineal one, a patrilineal one and double-descent system. Drawing on this research, the report then presents recommendations for law reform.
Data-sharing under Namibias Civil Registration and Identification Bill
The purpose of this report is to advise on data-sharing between public and private entities, with a view giving appropriate protection to private and confidential information in the Civil Register. Who should be able to request and receive personal data? What information should be released and under what conditions? Who should be allowed to release such information? These are some of the issues addressed in the paper. The report considers key international standards, existing Namibian legislatio
Divorce law reform: a summary of the LRDC proposals
This is a summary of a bill proposed by the Law Reform and Development Commission to introduce simpler divorce procedures which focus on fair division of property and the welfare of children of the marriage, rather than on the question of fault. It is designed to inform public debate on the proposed law.
RESEARCH BRIEF: The Legal Assistance Centre has summarised key information from the detailed research report on this topic into a more concise research brief, intended for use by policymakers and stakeholders.me
Education sector policy on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy: Management
The purpose of this manual is to train teachers and support staff on how to implement the Education Sector Policy on the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy.
Education sector policy on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy: Management landscape
The purpose of this manual is to train teachers and support staff on how to implement the Education Sector Policy on the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy.
Education sector policy on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy: Overview
The purpose of this manual is to train teachers and support staff on how to implement the Education Sector Policy on the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy.
Education sector policy on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy: Overview landscape
The purpose of this manual is to train teachers and support staff on how to implement the Education Sector Policy on the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy.
Education sector policy on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy: Prevention
The purpose of this manual is to train teachers and support staff on how to implement the Education Sector Policy on the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy.
Education sector policy on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy: Prevention landscape
The purpose of this manual is to train teachers and support staff on how to implement the Education Sector Policy on the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy.
Education sector policy on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy: Roles
The purpose of this manual is to train teachers and support staff on how to implement the Education Sector Policy on the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy.
This short booklet discusses equal opportunities in the workplace, sexual harassment in the workplace and other labour law provisions relating to gender equality - including protection against discrimination on the basis of, sex or pregnancy, maternity leave or family responsibilities. It is suitable for the general public.
Every parent, caregiver and learner can play a role in holding their school accountable for providing quality education in a safe environment - learner
Extractive Industry and displacement of communities: the Tsumeb experience
Like the extreme ratio between the poor and the rich in Namibia, is the value of mining activities to the economic growth of Namibia – both are extremely disproportionate. It is a fact that the communities directly affected by the mining operations are not the primary beneficiaries of any benefits that come from such operations.
Family Affair: the status of cohabitation in Namibia - summary
This report assesses the prevalence of cohabitation in Namibia and provides information on the legal status of cohabiting relationships. The report includes public opinion about cohabitation collected in two phases, in 2002 and 2009. The publication also includes information on how other countries address cohabitation and recommendations for law reform. A more detailed version of the report, aimed primarily at lawyers, is available electronically.
Family Affair: the status of cohabitation in Namibia: full report
This report assesses the prevalence of cohabitation in Namibia and provides information on the legal status of cohabiting relationships. The report includes public opinion about cohabitation collected in two phases, in 2002 and 2009. The publication also includes information on how other countries address cohabitation and recommendations for law reform. A more detailed version of the report, aimed primarily at lawyers, is available electronically.
Family Affair: the status of cohabitation in Namibia: research brief
The Legal Assistance Centre has summarised key information from the detailed research report on this topic into a more concise research brief, intended for use by policymakers and stakeholders.
This report provides information on international and regional commitments to gender issues. The report contains a dedicated section on international human rights law on violence against women.
This short booklet discusses provisions of the Labour Act relating to gender ? including discrimination on the basis of sex or pregnancy, maternity leave, family responsibilities, and sexual harassment in the workplace. It is suitable for the general public.
This CD contains PowerPoint presentations on the Combating of Domestic Violence Act, the Combating of Rape Act, the Married Person?s Equality Act, the Maintenance Act and Gender and the Labour Act. The CD is suitable for trainers who are conducting workshops on these topics.
Author:
N/A
Topic:
N/A
Type:
Visual
Date: N/A
Languages: N/A
Price: N$ 20.00
Gender and the law: radio show scripts
This package contains scripts that radio presenters or community activists can use to talk about gender and the law on radio. The package contains scripts on gender equality, empowerment, domestic violence, assertiveness and alcohol. The scripts have also been recorded (see below).
This CD contains a recorded version of the scripts above. It contains shows on gender equality, empowerment, domestic violence, assertiveness and alcohol. The CD has been designed for use on radio but is also suitable for use in workshops.
This CD contains ten shorts on maintenance, rape, domestic violence and gender equality. The CD has been designed for use on radio but is also suitable for use in workshops.
The manual contains thirteen modules. Eleven modules reflect the main subject areas in the first National Gender Policy, with two additional modules on gender mainstreaming and monitoring and evaluation. The manual is intended to be used by personnel from the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare (MGECW) or other relevant stakeholders, to guide them in conducting gender sensitization and related workshops. It was prepared by the Legal Assistance Centre for MGECW.
This guide gives a clear and comprehensive explanation to the Child Care and Protection Act of 2015. It is aimed primarily at service providers such as magistrates and social workers, and at persons who will be conducting training on the law. Each chapter can be reproduced individually. Combined into a single lever arch file, the chapters in combination form a handy reference manual
Guide to the combating of Domestic Violence Act 4 of 2003
This guide gives a clear and comprehensive explanation of the Combating of Domestic Violence Act. It covers the situations defined as domestic violence, the procedure for seeking a protection order and the rules pertaining to domestic violence offences. The application process for a protection order is dealt with in detail and sample application forms are included with guidance on how to complete them. This detailed guide is aimed at service providers.
This guide gives a clear and comprehensive explanation of the Maintenance Act. It outlines the principles on which the Act is based and explains the factors the court considers when deciding whether a person should be ordered to pay maintenance. The application process to make a maintenance complaint is dealt with in detail and sample application forms are included with guidance on how to complete them. This detailed guide is aimed at service providers.
This guide gives a clear and comprehensive explanation of the Married Persons Equality Act. It explains how the Act has made changes to common and customary law on marriage, bringing the law in line with the provision of the Namibian Constitution on sexual equality. The Guide explains the changes which have been made regarding control of property in civil marriages. This detailed guide is aimed at service providers.
Guidelines for service providers on the Combating of Rape Act of Namibia
These guidelines aim to set a standard for a consistent and sensitive professional response to rape. They were drafted by members of the relevant professions after extensive consultations with stakeholders who deal directly with rape complainants and members of the public and so are genuinely representative of the concerns and needs of those who experience rape. The guidelines are for service providers.
Guidelines for service providers on the Domestic Violence Act
These guidelines aim to set a standard for a consistent and sensitive professional response to domestic violence. They were drafted by members of the relevant professions after extensive consultations with stakeholders who deal directly with domestic violence cases and members of the public and so are genuinely representative of the concerns and needs of those who suffer such violence. The guidelines are for service providers.
This study examines the factors influencing women to exchange sex for economic gain. It reports data collected through questionnaires and in-depth interviews from women who are or have been sex workers in Windhoek. It details their experiences and explores their attitudes towards the legalisation of sex work. The results are compared with those from Whose Body Is It?. The report also makes recommendations for change.
This booklet explains the various circumstances when a child?s surname can be changed, who can apply to change a surname, how it can be changed and what documents are required. This short booklet is suitable for the general public.
There are many types of groups that work for the benefit of the community in Namibia. These groups are often known as non-profit groups. This brief guide explains the rules on how to create a non-profit group.
How to improve the services of Woman and Child Protection Units in Namibia
This report outlines key problems currently compromising the operation of the WCPUs in Namibia, together with recommendations that have been put forward to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of WCPU services. The information is drawn from a range of studies and reports.
This booklet explains why a childs birth should be registered, who can register it, when and where registration can be made and what documents are needed. It also gives advice about what to do if documents are missing. The booklet emphasises that there are no costs or fees to register a birth. This short booklet is suitable for the general public.
Improving Namibian law to prevent statelessness and to protect stateless persons
A brief overview of the steps needed to reform Namibian law to strengthen protections against statelessness and to bring Namibia in line with the two international conventions on statelessness. This factsheet summarises the information on Namibian law in the research brief.
Inheritance issues: information and feedback from community consultations on inheritance law reforms
This short conference report considers three basic options for law reform on inheritance and the issue of maintenance for the dependents of the deceased. The discussions at this meeting informed the law reform proposals under discussion by the Law Reform and Development Commission in 2011.
Institutionalisation and Institutional Voids of Namibias Communal Land Reform Act
The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to the intended and unintended consequences of a communal land governance structure in Namibia consisting of Communal Land Boards and Traditional Authorities.
Key Gender Laws: A Training Manual for Community Activists
This training pack has been produced to help trainers educate community members about the laws on gender in Namibia. The manual contains training sessions on gender, the Married Persons Equality Act, rape, domestic violence and maintenance.
Elections are the process through which members of the community choose representatives to hold positions at various levels of government. This factsheet explains how elections work in Namibia.
The executive branch is one of Namibia?s three branches of government. Its primary task is to put laws in action. The executive branch consists mainly of the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and Cabinet. The executive branch does its work with the help of members of the public service.
The Namibian Constitution gives Namibia an independent Ombudsman to guard against corruption and injustice, and to help protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people. This is one of several institutions that help to ensure that government acts within the Namibian Constitution and the law.
The judicial branch includes all of the courts of law in Namibia, namely the Supreme Court, the High Courts and the Lower Courts. These courts can decide criminal cases (when someone has been arrested for committing a crime) and civil cases (disputes between two individuals, such as a divorce or an argument about who must pay for a car accident). They also interpret and apply the law to everyday life.
The legislative branch is one of Namibia?s three branches of government. Its primary task is making laws. It has two parts: the National Assembly and the National Council. Together, they are called Parliament.
Know your Government: Overview of the Namibian Constitution
Most democracies have a constitution, which is a foundational law that establishes government structures and explains how power will be organised. A constitution explains how the other laws of the country will be made. Constitutions also usually guarantee that all citizens of the nation will have certain important rights.
Know your Government: Regional and local government
The Namibian Constitution establishes three levels of government (1) central government (2) regional government and (3) local government. This factsheet talks about regional and local government.
Know your Government: The three branches of government
The Namibian Constitution creates three different branches of government: 1. the executive branch (the president and Cabinet) 2. the legislative branch (Parliament) 3. the judicial branch (the courts) This kind of separation of powers is an important part of most democracies.
The introduction and implementation of the CLRA has undoubtedly brought about improvements
in communal land administration and tenure security – the former through the establishment of Communal Land Boards to control the allocation and cancellation of customary land rights, and the latter through a process of registering customary land rights.
Common law is the law developed over time through decisions in individual court cases. It is usually necessary to examine several court cases decided over time to understand the common law on any specific topic. Parliament can change the common law by passing a statute that says something different. Common law must be consistent with the Constitution.
Customary law is law that has developed over the years in different communities in Namibia. It changes gradually over time as people change their ways of doing things. Customary law must be consistent with the Constitution.
International law generally refers to the rules that apply to relationships between nations. Namibia has joined together with other nations in accepting some international agreements which form part of Namibia?s law.
The Namibian Constitution gives Namibia an independent Ombudsman to guard against corruption and injustice, and to help protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people. This is one of several institutions that help to ensure that government acts within the Namibian Constitution and the law.
Statutes are laws that have been passed by Parliament since independence, or laws that were passed by other legislative bodies before independence. Other terms for statutes are ?legislation? and ?Acts of Parliament?. Parliament can also make changes, called ?amendments?, to statutes which have already been passed. All statutes must be consistent with the Constitution.
Leasehold as a vehicle for economic development in Namibia
In order promote economic development and redress the past imbalances in land ownership, the Namibian Government has introduced a variety of land reform instruments such as the Flexible Land Tenure System, the Affirmative Action Loan Scheme, communal land registration and the National Resettlement Programme. The latter two reforms are geared towards providing long-term leasehold rights on communal land and in former commercial areas.
Leasehold as a vehicle for economic development: a case study of small-scale farmers in Namibia's Oshikoto region
In 1990, the newly independent Republic of Namibia committed itself to redressing the imbalances in land ownership in the country. It developed a land reform programme in both the non-freehold or communal areas and the freehold or commercial farming sector.
This pamphlet discusses family law relevant to LGBT persons in Namibia, and presents some options for addressing family issues in such relationships. This pamphlet is suitable for the general public.
This pamphlet explains briefly on the rights of LGBT individuals in relation to health services in Namibia. This pamphlet is suitable for the general public.
This pamphlet explains briefly labour law issues relevant to the LGBT community in Namibia, with a focus on protection against discrimination in the workplace. This pamphlet is suitable for the general public.
This pamphlet discusses laws which can be used by LGBT persons to protect themselves against violence. For example, although the Domestic Violence Act does not apply to same-sex relationships there are other remedies available in respect of such relationships. This pamphlet is suitable for the general public.
The film centres around the activities of a fictional maintenance court. The central character is a maintenance officer who takes us through her daily life as she meets clients from all walks of life. The film is intended to be an entertaining drama whilst educating the public about problems that are commonly experienced when applying for maintenance. The underlying message is the need to focus on the needs of the children in question, rather than on the disputes between parents.
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48:00:00 min
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Price: N$ 0.00
Maintenance matters: an assessment of the operation of Namibia's Maintenance Act 9 of 2003
This study covers the background to the Maintenance Act and presents the findings of extensive field research on maintenance orders. It concludes with recommendations for fine-tuning the law and improving its implementation.
Maintenance matters: an assessment of the operation of Namibia's Maintenance Act 9 of 2003
The Legal Assistance Centre has summarised key information from its detailed research report on this topic into a more concise research brief, intended for use by policymakers and stakeholders.
These short ?advertisement-length? vignettes are aimed at encouraging fathers to take responsibility for their children. Some are poignant, whilst others use humour to get the message across (such as the one about Mr Super-Cool-and-Loving, whose actions eventually catch up with him). They are suitable for broadcast on television between regularly-scheduled programming, or for use to spark workshop discussions.
This training programme for community survivor supporters aims to enhance the effectiveness of those community members identified by their communities and trained as supporters. The training manual discussed the psychosocial elements of support work, basic counselling skills, assertiveness, the definition of gender and how gender stereotyping contributes to violence. The manual also covers the legislative framework in Namibia that protects the rights of all survivors of abuse. It was prepared by
This report discusses the current law on marital property in civil and customary marriage, and presents recommendations for law reform. This research served as the basis for the draft Marital Property Bill which has been recommended by the Law Reform and Development Commission (but has not yet become law).
Meanings of inheritance: perspectives on Namibian inheritance practices
This book reviews the different forms of customary inheritance practiced in Namibia. The book contains chapters on inheritance in different cultures such as the San, Ovahimba and Ovaherero.
An overview of the National Gender Policy in simple language. These materials were prepared by the Legal Assistance Centre for the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare.
A set of two pamphlets, giving a slightly more detailed overview of the policy ? one aimed at youth and one aimed at adults. These materials were prepared by the Legal Assistance Centre for the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare.
In 2017, GR&AP was commissioned by the Delegation of the European Union to Namibia (EU) to produce a gender analysis to guide future intervention on gender issues in Namibia by the EU and its member states. This 13-chapter report was completed in July, informed by a host of Namibian statistical data as well as interviews with 20 key stakeholders from government and civil society.
Namibian law on civil marriages: a question and answer package
This booklet has been designed to assist marriage counsellors to inform couples about the basic legal issues associated with civil marriage. It may also be useful to other people who work with engaged and married couples.
This report examines Namibian law on LGBT issues. It covers criminal laws relevant to the LGBT community, protection against violence and hate speech, labour law issues, access to health car and family law issues. It also looks at the possibility of legal challenges to discrimination against LGBT persons.
This paper examines the Namibian Presidents broad immunity from most civil and criminal proceedings by virtue of Article 31 of the Namibian Constitution. It looks at the notion of presidential immunity and the widely varying approaches to this issue in other countries, particularly in Africa. This comparison shows that the degree of immunity provided by the Namibia Constitution is particularly in Africa. This comparison shows that the degree of immunity provided by the Constitution as a whole.
This documentary gives sex workers in Namibia an opportunity to describe their lives in their own words. It includes accounts of violence experienced by sex workers.
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60:00:00 min
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Price: N$ 0.00
Not coming up dry: regulating the use of Namibia's scarce water resources by mining operations
This small gatefold pamphlet briefly summarises the main provisions in the Married Persons Equality Act. The pamphlet explains that the Act has made husbands and wives equal in the eyes of the law. It also outlines the two common marital property schemes of in and out of community of property.
Pocket guide: the Combating of Domestic Violence Act
This small gatefold pamphlet explains briefly the meaning of domestic violence, where to report a situation of domestic violence, how to get a protection order, what a protection order might include and what could happen if the abuser ignores the conditions of the order. It also explains formal warnings and domestic violence offences. This pamphlet is suitable for the general public.
This small gatefold pamphlet explains briefly the meaning of rape, what someone who is raped should do to safeguard evidence, where they should go to report the rape and what medical help they need. It also lists the special steps which can be taken during a rape trial to minimize the trauma for the rape victim. This pamphlet is suitable for the general public.
This small gatefold pamphlet briefly summarises the main provisions in the Maintenance Act including who has the right to maintenance, who can claim maintenance, and how a claim can be made. This pamphlet is suitable for the general public.
This booklet explains the rules about child labour and the participation of children in certain regulated activities. It is also aimed at helping people understand and report illegal child labour or exploitation of children. The booklet explains the laws which protect children from being taken advantage of, forced into work, or involved in work that is inappropriate for their age. Not all employment undertaken by children is illegal ? this booklet explains what kinds of employment are allowed fo
This booklet gives an overview of the problems associated with underage drinking and explains what the law says about underage drinking. It gives ideas on what community members can do if underage drinking is a problem in their community. This short booklet is suitable for the general public.
Production of the film on alternatives to corporal punishment: A Betta Way
Depicting a battle to change the opinions of a whole community, the film is not only an educative tool but also a compelling story to watch. Set in a rural community school, Paulus and his friends are subjected to almost daily beatings at school and beatings at home.
A popular website places the Namibian road fatality rate as high as 45 per 100 000, a figure that would award Namibia the unwelcomed title of most road injury fatalities per 100 000 in the world. This brief proposes ways in which Namibia?s Roads can be enhanced.
Protection for Women in Namibia's Communal Land Reform Act: Is it Working?
This study investigates the extent to which the Communal Land Reform Act 2002 are known to women, and whether women are able to claim the rights stipulated in the Act in practice. It also examines the role of Communal Land Boards and Traditional Authorities in protecting the rights of women.
Public participation in Law Reform: Revisionof Namibia's Draft Child Care and Protection Bill
This report describes the consultative process around the development of the Child Care and Protection Bill, with examples of the materials used to involve adults and children. It includes detailed statistics and feedback on the consultations, and how they influenced the final draft bill. The report provides a useful template for participatory law reform practices. (The report is a joint publication of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, the Legal Assistance Centre and UNICEF.)
Rape complainant's guide to being a witness in court
This booklet is designed to prepare a rape victim for the experience of giving evidence in court. It explains what special provisions are available to make the experience less daunting, the roles of the lawyers and others involved and how to seek counselling support if the process leaves the victim disturbed. This short booklet is suitable for the general public.
Rape in Namibia: an assessment of the operation of the Combating of Rape Act: full report
This extensive research report provides a comprehensive review of the operation of the Combating of Rape Act through an examination of national police statistics on rape, plus a sample of rape cases which originated during 2000-2005, to see how the Act is working in practice. A shorter summary report is also available. This report is aimed at service providers, stakeholders and researchers.
Rape in Namibia: an assessment of the operation of the Combating of Rape Act: summary
This extensive research report provides a comprehensive review of the operation of the Combating of Rape Act through an examination of national police statistics on rape, plus a sample of rape cases which originated during 2000-2005, to see how the Act is working in practice. A shorter summary report is also available. This report is aimed at service providers, stakeholders and researchers.
: This is a summary of a bill proposed by the Law Reform and Development Commission to give formal recognition to customary marriages, outlaw polygamy and provide for the equal rights of husbands and wives in customary marriages. It is designed to inform public debate on the proposed law.
Regulation of the Legal Profession: Issues and ideas
In 2017, GR&AP was commissioned by the Law Society of Namibia to produce a comparative law desk study of regulation of the legal profession, including frameworks for outreach and services to the public by legal practitioners in other countries. This publication contributed the CHANGE Project of the Law Society, which aims to design innovative, sustainable and practical recommendations for change and possible amendment of laws governing all aspects of the legal profession, to ensure a proactive,
This is a civic education video about the rule of law. It looks at the Constitution and the other four sources of law in Namibia which are the statutes, common law, customary law and international law.
School policy on learner pregnancy in Namibia: background to reform
This report summarises information about the incidence of learner pregnancies in Namibia, reviews the history of policies for dealing with learner pregnancies, discusses international perspectives and makes proposals for a new policy. This report is suitable for stakeholders and researchers. A summary version is also available. Note that Namibia?s policy on learner pregnancy has been revised since this report was published.
School policy on learner pregnancy in Namibia: summary of background information
This report summarises information about the incidence of learner pregnancies in Namibia, reviews the history of policies for dealing with learner pregnancies, discusses international perspectives and makes proposals for a new policy. This report is suitable for stakeholders and researchers (the summary). Note that Namibia?s policy on learner pregnancy has been revised since this report was published.
This circular provides information for service providers about the linkages between domestic violence and the risk of HIV infection. The circular provides suggestions for how this linkage can be addressed.
This study covers the background to the Combating of Domestic Violence Act, summarises the key findings of past studies of domestic violence in Namibia and presents the findings of extensive field research on protection orders. It concludes with recommendations for fine-tuning the law and improving its implementation.
Seeking safety: increasing awareness of the impact of domestic violence
A series of 9 posters providing contextual information about domestic violence and information about what to do if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence.
Seeking safety: increasing awareness of the impact of domestic violence: death
A series of 9 posters providing contextual information about domestic violence and information about what to do if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence.
Seeking safety: increasing awareness of the impact of domestic violence: eyes
A series of 9 posters providing contextual information about domestic violence and information about what to do if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence.
Seeking safety: increasing awareness of the impact of domestic violence: HIV
A series of 9 posters providing contextual information about domestic violence and information about what to do if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence.
Seeking safety: increasing awareness of the impact of domestic violence: kids 1
A series of 9 posters providing contextual information about domestic violence and information about what to do if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence.
Seeking safety: increasing awareness of the impact of domestic violence: kids 2
A series of 9 posters providing contextual information about domestic violence and information about what to do if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence.
Seeking safety: increasing awareness of the impact of domestic violence: men
A series of 9 posters providing contextual information about domestic violence and information about what to do if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence.
Seeking safety: increasing awareness of the impact of domestic violence: victims
A series of 9 posters providing contextual information about domestic violence and information about what to do if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence.
Seeking safety: increasing awareness of the impact of domestic violence: women
A series of 9 posters providing contextual information about domestic violence and information about what to do if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence.
Seeking Safety: Protecting children affected by child abuse
This circular provides information for service providers about how children can be protected against domestic violence using the provisions in the Combating of Domestic Violence Act. The circular includes contextual information about the number of children affected by domestic violence.
This study covers the background to the Combating of Domestic Violence Act, summarises the key findings of past studies of domestic violence in Namibia and presents the findings of extensive field research on protection orders. It concludes with recommendations for fine-tuning the law and improving its implementation.
The Legal Assistance Centre has summarised key information from the detailed monograph on this topic into a more concise research brief, intended for use by policymakers and stakeholders.
This report assesses the need for legislation on stalking in Namibia. It describes the current legal protections available and provides a review of international law on stalking.
Statelessness conventions and why Namibia should accede to them
A brief overview of the 1954 Convention Relating to the Status of Stateless Persons and the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness. This factsheet summarises the information on the Conventions in the research brief.
Stepfamilies in Namibia: A study of the situation of stepparents and stepchildren and recommendations for law reform
Stepfamilies appear to be common in Namibia, but there has been virtually no research on this family dynamic. This explores the relationship between ?stepparents? and ?stepchildren?, with a particular focus on issues of concern. The study makes recommendations for law reforms that could alleviate the problems identified.
Stepfamilies in Namibia: Summary of Findings and Recommendations from Stepfamilies in Namibia
The Legal Assistance Centre has summarised key information from the detailed research report on this topic into a more concise research brief, intended for use by policymakers and stakeholders.
An explanation of the law on informed consent to sterilisation in light of the 2012 Namibian court case on this issue. The pamphlet explains that the consent of the spouse is not required for this procedure.
Summary of Namibia's Child Care and Protection Act
This booklet compiles 23 factsheets which provide a simple overview of the topics covered in the law. Each factsheet can also be reproduced individually.
Teddy Bear Love looks at the lives of a group of learners about to finish school. Sylvia is deeply unhappy at home, especially since her mother began drinking and beating both Sylvia and her dad. At school, she meets Tony, a shy learner. They start a relationship and are happy with one another. Yet, other learners try to convince them that they should be having sex. When Tony finally finds the courage to ask her to have sex with him, Sylvia doesn?t know what to do. Will she agree to this against
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Relationships
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Visual
Time:
43:56:00 min
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Price: N$ 90.00
Think twice: a two-film package. Both stories aim at making people reflect on the consequences our actions can have on our lives. The stories each have two endings, depending on the choices made by the protagonists.
Sex and Chocolate looks at four university students. While Kandi and Peter share a healthy and loving relationship, Kandi?s friend, Lucy, finds herself confronted with a dilemma. She is deeply in love with David but comes to know that he has another girlfriend, Sharon. Will she stay in the relationship, knowing she will always be number 2, or will she move on?
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Relationships
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51:18:00 min
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Price: N$ 90.00
Trafficking in Persons
A decade ago, people tended to think of trafficking in persons ? also referred to as human trafficking or modern slavery ? as primarily involving women trafficked from a poor country into an affluent country for sexual exploitation. Today, there is a greater awareness about the diversity of trafficking (which affects women, men and children) and the various ways in which victims may be exploited (such as for work, sex or forced marriage). Also, there are increasing reports of domestic traffickin
Training guide for clarks of court on the Combating of Domestic Violence Act
This guide was developed in response to input from clerks of court requesting more training on their role in implementing the Combating of Domestic Violence Act.
Training manual: For the implementation of the education sector policy on the prevention and management of learner pregnancy
The purpose of this manual is to train teachers and support staff on how to implement the Education Sector Policy on the Prevention and Management of Learner Pregnancy.
Training Session on Alternatives to Corporal Punishment - children
This training session has been produced to help trainers educate children about alternatives to corporal punishment. The session described can be conducted in a half-day.
This book contains 19 essays by prominent academics and analysts on the misconceptions, stereotypes and taboos surrounding the concepts of gender equality, sexuality and sexual rights in Namibia.
Use of force by law enforcement officials in Namibia
This paper looks at the legal framework for use of force by law enforcement officials when they are carrying out their duties. It presents the key international standards, the guidance provided by current Namibian law, and some comparative law models to consider if Namibian laws on this issue might be improved. It concludes with recommendations for reform to the relevant legislation.
In this memo, the term vaccine mandates refers to rules requiring vaccinations as a condition for employment, entry into certain places or participation in specific activities. Some commentators refer to hard mandates (where vaccinations are required for attendance at schools, workplaces or other venues or events) and soft mandates.
Voices in the dark: climate change challenges for the marginal communities in Namibia
Often the voices of indigenous people and local communities are ignored with top down decision-making being imposed on marginalised communities. As a result, the outcomes are ill-informed without reference to the direct needs of vulnerable people who are displaced by anthropogenic induced climate change effects.
This booklet has been produced to explain children?s rights and how they apply to children in Namibia. The booklet consists of a simplified version of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child with accompanying illustrations that show how the provisions are relevant to life in Namibia.
This booklet gives a comprehensive definition of rape, when and where to report the rape, what evidence should be collected and by whom, the need for medical examination with appropriate treatment and advice about giving a statement to the police. This short booklet is suitable for the general public.
This film is the story of a Namibian family which experiences both serious and subtle forms of domestic violence. The step-father, a long-distance truck driver, subjects his wife and two children to many different forms of domestic violence. The film ties the theme of domestic violence to the issues of child abuse and HIV/AIDS in a strong and suspenseful drama with a musical score by well-known Namibian artists Elemotho, Sasha Olivier-Sampson and others.
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Topic:
Domestic violence
Type:
Visual
Time:
1:15:59 min
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Price: N$ 80.00
Whose Body Is It? Commercial Sex Work and the Law
This study assesses the status of sex work in Namibia through field research with sex workers and a review of the legislation. The report also canvasses international laws on sex work and public opinion in Namibia, and makes recommendations for law reform. This report is suitable for stakeholders, policy makers and researchers.
This booklet deals with the various problems and pressures women experience which lead them to withdraw rape cases, contrasting these with positive reasons for continuing to press charges together with reassurances about the court experience. This short booklet is suitable for the general public.
Withdrawn: why complainants withdraw rape cases in Namibia
This study follows from the Rape in Namibia study, which found that complainants requested withdrawals in more than one-third of rape cases. This qualitative study explores the reasons for rape case withdrawals in more detail and provides recommendations which could respond to some of the issues raised. The report is aimed at service providers, stakeholders and researchers.
