19th March 2026
Lesotho has strengthened its legal framework and strong anti-trafficking measures. However, persistent patriarchal norms and harmful practices continue to impede effective implementation. Improved services, stricter enforcement, and ongoing community engagement are essential to safeguard women and girls.
Key recommendations:
- Strengthen implementation of the Counter Domestic Violence Act, ensuring prompt police response, enforcement of protection orders, and survivor-centred procedures.
- Increase resource allocation and strengthen capacity across shelters, health services, the judiciary, and specialised police units such as the CGPU.
- Intensify efforts to eliminate harmful norms and practices, including through community-driven awareness campaigns and support for social and behaviour-change initiatives.
- Increase specialised training for police, judiciary, and healthcare providers to improve case handling and reduce re-traumatisation of the survivor.
- Enhance access to services in rural and remote areas, including safe accommodation, psychosocial support, and child-protection mechanisms.
- Strengthen coordination among government bodies, including the Anti-GBV Coordination forum, to ensure effective policy implementation.
- Improve monitoring and data collection to guide evidence-based planning and track progress on GBV prevention and response.