A Qualitative Analysis of Gender-Based and Intimate Partner Violence Experiences Among Adolescent Girls and Women in Informal Settlements in Uganda in Navigating the Justice System

A Qualitative Analysis of Gender-Based and Intimate Partner Violence Experiences Among Adolescent Girls and Women in Informal Settlements in Uganda in Navigating the Justice System | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article A Qualitative Analysis of Gender-Based and Intimate Partner Violence Experiences Among Adolescent Girls and Women in Informal Settlements in Uganda in Navigating the Justice System Tinuola Oladebo, Faith Bobholz, Juliet Kiguli, Max Bobholz, Agnes Nyabigambo, and 4 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-7472683/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 8 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Introduction: Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a global challenge and is similarly known to have a high prevalence in countries such as Uganda, with adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in informal settlements at greater risk. Economic hardship, systemic inequality, and weak policy enforcement are known factors that exacerbate their vulnerability. This study explores the lived experiences of AGYW to identify the impact of these experiences and the challenges that have undermined efforts to combat this issue, particularly how institutional failures perpetuate violence and hinder access to protection and redress. Methods This study qualitatively assessed the focus group discussions (FGDs) with AGYW in informal settlements with GBV experiences via MAX QDA software. The participants were recruited through community networks. The data were thematically analyzed via an inductive approach to identify the different barriers to justice. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained from appropriate institutions. Results Findings from this study revealed the causes and forms of abuse, where this abuse occurs, and the outcomes of these abuses. Three themes were identified in relation to the study’s focus, as reported by participants during the FGDs. These include “economic and structural barriers in the justice system undermining access to justice for victims of GBV and IPV in informal settlements”, “institutional betrayal and abuse of power by justice system actors contributing to the exploitation of GBV survivors and mistrust”, and “the social and psychological toll of failed justice systems leading to isolation, coping strategies, and further vulnerability for GBV and IPV survivors.” Conclusions The discussion revealed that economic vulnerability, systemic corruption, and weak policy enforcement limit the AGYW access to justice. Institutional betrayal, patriarchal norms, and victim blaming perpetuate abuse and silence survivors. Justice seeking is transactional, favoring the powerful, whereas survivors face stigma, trauma, and exclusion. The study recommends anticorruption training, trauma-informed care, and policy reforms. It also calls for anonymous reporting mechanisms, and victim representation to support evidence collection. Comprehensive mental health services and inclusive, multisectoral approaches are essential to restore trust, ensure accountability, and protect the rights and dignity of GBV and IPV survivors in Uganda. Gender Based Violence Adolescent Girls and Young Women Informal Settlement Figures Figure 1 1.0 BACKGROUND The prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) remains alarmingly high, ranking among the most widespread human rights violations globally ( 1 ). GBV disproportionately affects adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), with nearly one in three women worldwide experiencing physical or sexual violence at least once in their lifetime ( 2 ). GBV has been defined extensively in the literature ( 3 ) One definition describes GBV as violence inflicted on an individual, driven by gender-based inequalities and power imbalances ( 4 ). Another defines it as any harmful act imposed against an individual’s will, particularly againt women and girls, and rooted in socially constructed gender norms and distinctions ( 5 ). Among the various forms of GBV, intimate partner violence (IPV) is the most prevalent ( 6 – 9 ) IPV, including sexual, psychological, physical, and financial abuse inflicted by current or former intimate partners ( 7 , 9 – 11 ). This pervasive form of violence continues to have devastating consequences for millions of women and girls globally ( 2 ) GBV is especially severe for women and girls living in informal settlements. Factors such as rural-to-urban migration, a lack of affordable housing, economic vulnerability, underemployment, unemployment, discrimination, marginalization, displacement caused by conflict, natural disasters, and climate change significantly increase vulnerability ( 12 ) These informal settlements are often characterized by poor infrastructure, overcrowding, and inadequate access to basic services, further compounding vulnerabilities ( 12 ). Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), in particular, has experienced a rapid increase in its urban population living in such settlements, with two-thirds of urban dwellers residing in these conditions ( 13 ). The challenges of informal settlements not only exacerbate GBV but also significantly increase the prevalence of IPV due to the associated risk factors ( 12 – 14 ). The lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted major sources of economic sustenance for those in informal settlements, who often depend on work in the informal sector, such as ambulatory vending, which disproportionately affected this population ( 15 ). COVID-19 led to a surge in unemployment, placing women and girls under severe economic strain, which in turn heightened their risk of experiencing violence ( 10 , 16 ). Perpetrators often exploit the economic vulnerability of women and girls to commit acts of sexual violence ( 7 ). A study in Uganda reported that 46% of participants across the country reported knowing at least one person who had been a victim of GBV during the pandemic, an indicator of its economic and social burden on women and girls ( 3 ) Globally, SSA has the highest prevalence of GBV. In Uganda, 55.5% of women have reported experiencing physical or sexual IPV in their lifetime, whereas 34.6% have endured such violence within the past 12 months ( 2 ). Consequently, Uganda has emerged as one of the top ten countries with the highest budget for addressing GBV, allocating an estimated $ 12.1 million to these efforts ( 17 ). Despite the alarming statistics, Uganda has implemented only four key policies to address the crisis, leaving countless women and girls vulnerable to the devastating impacts of GBV, particularly IPV. Thus far, Uganda has implemented the National Policy on the Elimination of Gender-Based Violence, established a legal and policy framework designed to operationalize constitutional provisions that address the GBV, a multisectoral approach, to ensure effective and efficient service delivery to survivors, and the National Action Plan, which was developed to guide and support the implementation of the GBV policy ( 18 ). Despite these efforts, GBV, particularly IPV, has remained a persistent issue, raising the question of whether the problem is not associated with the policies themselves but rather with their enforcement and implementation. Despite widespread attention, the prevalence of GBV has increased, with particularly severe impacts on vulnerable populations such as AGYW in already marginalized communities such as informal settlements in Uganda. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of AGYW in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda, during the COVID-19 pandemic to investigate how upstream systemic factors, economic burdens and social factors have contributed to the exacerbation of GBV and IPV in these communities. Through thematic analysis, we examine their experiences of seeking justice and identify the social and economic factors that have impacted this process in these affected groups. This study also aims to provide recommendations for policies and future research. 2.0 METHODS Procedure This qualitative study analyzed data from focus group discussions (FGDs) conducted with the AGYW in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda. The FGDs was developed for this study and this study being the first from the discussion.( 19 ) A key informant guide was developed to guide the FGDs and this is available upon request as a supplementary file. ( 20 ) FGDs aimed to explore the experiences of GBV and perspectives on existing reporting mechanisms. Research activities were conducted in two informal settlements, Bwaise and Kinawataka, where AGYW are at high risk for GBV. The FGDs was guided by questions to explore AGYW experiences with GBV, barriers to seeking help, community attitudes toward GBV, and potential facilitators of intervention adoption. The FGDs were facilitated by experienced research assistants who received training on how to obtain informed consent, ethical conduct of research, and focus group interviewing techniques. The training included role-playing exercises to practice conducting focus group interviews with appropriate probing. The FGDs were conducted in the participants’ local language, Luganda, ensuring cultural and contextual relevance. Sessions were audio-recorded with the participants’ consent. Transcriptions were anonymized to maintain confidentiality. All study activities were reviewed and approved by the Makerere University Research Ethics Committee, Medical College of Wisconsin Institutional Review Board and Uganda National Council for Science and Technology. Written informed consent was obtained from participants who were 15 years or older since that is the age of consent for sexual and reproductive age health in Uganda. Sample Selection A total of four FGDs were conducted with AGYW in the informal settlements of Bwaise and Kinawataka in Kampala, Uganda. AGYW who participated in the FGDs were recruited through convenience sampling through the SOMERO organization, which is known for providing advocacy work on GBV and offering psychosocial support for AGYW who are survivors of GBV in Uganda. FGDs was stratified by age group: 10–14 years, 15–18 years, 19–24 years, and 25 years and above (Table 1 ). Informed consent was gotten from parents of those less than 18 years of age. Each discussion consisted of approximately 8–10 participants, ensuring diverse perspectives while maintaining a manageable group size for in-depth conversations. The eligibility criteria for participation included being female, residing in Bwaise or Kinawataka informal settlements, being aged 10 years or older and being willing to discuss experiences related to GBV and intervention strategies. Written informed consent was obtained from all potential participants. The consent form was read aloud to AGYW in their local language, Luganda. The understanding of the risks and benefits of the project was assessed before their participation. Additionally, the participants were asked to keep the information disclosed in the FGDs confidential. The discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and anonymized for qualitative analysis. Table 1 Demographics summary table Focus Group Discussion Age Category (Yrs) N for Kiwanataka N for Bwaise 1 10–14 8 8 2 15–18 8 8 3 19–24 8 8 4 > 25 8 8 Total: 32 32 Analysis Approach The research question guiding this study is as follows: “What economic, legal, and social factors do AGYW in Uganda face after experiencing GBV and IPV, and how do these factors affect their ability to seek justice?”. This qualitative analysis follows an inductive approach ( 21 ), which recognizes that there is no single prescribed methodology for coding and analyzing qualitative data. Instead, the analysis process is inherently subjective and requires reflexivity ( 21 ). To develop the codebook, two out of the six translated focus group transcripts were read in detail. The codebook included primary codes, each defined as precisely as possible, accounting for various illustrations presented in the transcripts. Where necessary, subcodes were identified and similarly defined. This initial version of the codebook was reviewed, and the draft was carefully modified until all were satisfied that the coding tree accurately captured the interview content. Following this review, a second round of coding was conducted, incorporating all the FGDs transcripts. The codebook was then revisited and refined to better capture the essence of the data. This iterative process was repeated across all FGDs transcripts, leading to the development of themes. Representative quotes were identified from participant narratives to support each theme. To ensure that the themes accurately reflected the data, the process was repeated for consistency and rigor. Qualitative analysis was conducted via MAXQDA software. 3.0 RESULTS Findings from the FGDs revealed an overview of the causes, forms, locations, and outcomes of abuse. Through thematic analysis, three major themes were identified. Table 2 (see Appendix) presents direct quotes from participants that illustrate each of these themes. The three themes "Economic and Structural Barriers in the Justice System, Institutional Betrayal and Abuse of Power by Justice System Actors, and The Social and Psychological Toll of Failed Justice Systems" collectively illustrate how upstream systemic characteristics such as economic hardship, bureaucratic complexity, and abuse of authority interact to reinforce a cycle of injustice for GBV and IPV survivors in informal settlements. These systemic failures not only obstruct access to justice but also foster environments of exploitation, mistrust, and revictimization. As a result, survivors are left to navigate emotional turmoil, social stigma, and harmful coping mechanisms, often in isolation”. 3.1 Causes of Abuse, Forms of Abuse, Where Abuse Happens, and Outcomes On the basis of the lived experiences and testimonies gathered during the focus groups, the participants provided evidence regarding the causes, forms, and locations where these abuses take place in their communities. The participants discussed the causes of GBV 90 times. Forms of GBV were referenced 84 times, with six distinct types identified. These include spiritual exploitation, where religious leaders take advantage of vulnerable AGYW to exploit them financially and sexually under the pretense of religion. Financial exploitation was also reported, where participants described being deprived of income after working for exploiters. Sexual exploitation and violence were the most prevalent, with 53 mentions, often involving abusers who used survivors’ financial vulnerability as an opportunity to take advantage of them sexually. Other forms included verbal abuse, domestic abuse, and physical abuse. With respect to where GBV occurs, participants identified major locations on 40 different occasions. The home was the most frequently mentioned and was cited at least 18 times. Other places included the workplace, public places, religious centers, roadside, and transportation. The outcomes of GBV were mentioned 88 times across the FGDs. Some of the identified outcomes include unplanned pregnancy, unplanned marriage, abortion, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, shame, migration and relocation, fear of remarrying, discontinuation of education, health complications, death, and suicide. Figure 1 below illustrates these features. Men used to stay home and had no jobs so they would mistreat women and beat them and at times they would chase the women away. You would find a man at home with his children, and he would do everything for them. This at times resulted in men raping their own children and impregnating them. The quote above illustrates how economic deprivation acts as a major driver for men traditionally seen as “providers” to become abusers. When they were unable to fulfill this role, their frustrations led some to commit acts of sexual abuse and domestic violence to reassert their lost sense of masculinity. We as girls were still younger... We needed basic items in that if a man just came and showed you money, you were forced to accept him so that you can get what you need… These conditions place AGYW in situations of extreme vulnerability, as their basic needs and hunger have become increasingly difficult to ignore. This period exposed the desperation of victims, many of whom sought ways to survive by relying on men for financial support. … I end up going with men, which may result in unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection. That issue brought many problems, and I remember there was no money; then, foods were compromised, so this led to prostitution. These survival strategies have led to increased cases of sexually transmitted infections (STI), unplanned pregnancies, sexual exploitation, and related consequences. These things happened in families, at workplaces and on the roads/paths. They happened everywhere even in churches. The FGDs identified places where these abuses occurred. There were cases of these abuses occurring in the home, workplace, churches, and roadside. 3.2 Theme 1: Economic and Structural Barriers in the Justice System Undermine Access to Justice for Victims of GBV and IPV in Informal Settlements ” The participants reported that one of the major hindrances to seeking justice among AGYW who have experienced GBV in informal settlements in Uganda is the issue of “economic corruption and exploitation”. This refers to a system where unauthorized financial payments are demanded by those entrusted with upholding the law and supporting GBV survivors. Instead of offering protection, these officials require bribes from survivors of sexual abuse or exploitation before providing any assistance in reporting their abusers. The participants described in detail the deep-rooted bribery and corruption within local police departments. According to the participants, justice seeking has become a commodity that is accessible only to those who are financially secure, a game where the higher bidder, whether offender or victim, often wins. … Therefore, today’s police needs to be approached when you also have some good money in that if the other person pays 100,000, you also pay 200,000 to arrest them. According to the study participants, these corrupt practices are not limited to street officers but extend to top elected officials, such as local council court members (LCC), who are known to demand even larger bribes than the police before processing a GBV case. According to one of the participants, successfully receiving a case charged to the court does not exempt them from these challenges, as the judiciary system is similarly plagued with corruption and exploitation. A participant mentioned that evidence in the form of human witnesses, which could help strengthen a victim’s case, is often undermined by witness intimidation. Witnesses are frequently threatened and discouraged from testifying, with some fearing unlawful detention by the police. …Ordinary people also fear being detained at the police in the name of being witnesses and saying let everyone be for themselves and God for us all … Systemic failure was identified by this study participants as a type of structural barrier to justice. It was found to be responsible for delays in justice through bureaucratic complexities. One participant spoke about the long delays in pursuing a GBV case, stating that this often discourages victims from reporting or disclosing their experiences to authorities at all. …they were going to report to police but then they said the police might take long to help them or even not handle their case well … Another participant shared how difficult the administrative and operational procedures are when seeking justice through the court system and how this becomes a barrier to pursuing justice. Theme 2: Institutional Betrayal and Abuse of Power by Justice System Actors Contribute to the Exploitation of GBV Survivors and Mistrust Another theme that emerged in this study was the widespread abuse of power by agencies entrusted with upholding law and order, particularly in cases involving GBV and IPV. A participant noted how, before she could even report a case of IPV, her abuser had already threatened her and worked to undermine her case before the police. In another case, the police themselves rested on harmful gender stereotypes, reinforcing discriminatory attitudes that dismiss the pain and burden carried by women. …the policeman said, “the problem with you women is that you overrate yourselves. Why would you want to fight the man you cannot handle? I have closed this case; go report elsewhere. Another participant reported her disappointment in women who held leadership positions but failed to uphold law and order or protect the dignity of victims. During one of the FGDs, women leaders were described as being unfit for their roles. That is exactly what is in the government facilities. Women are so abusive in government facilities, but a man will treat you well but a woman. The participants identified a high level of mistrust with government agencies. For example, one of the participants explained how an initially supportive reaction to cases by an official does not necessarily mean that justice would follow. She mentioned how returning the next day to continue pursuing cases could result in the case being closed without specific reasons. Once a case is dismissed, it is abruptly cut off and often cannot be reopened or processed in the future. “ …However, you see some LCC chairpersons do not care. You may forward your issue to them, and at that particular moment, they may listen, and they advise you to come back the next day. When you go the next day, he might tell you they are on another engagement somewhere, and they just dissolve the thing". Another participant described how cases are sometimes dismissed through the use of misleading questions that victims cannot answer accurately or through the outright denial of their legitimacy. "Definitely it ends there because even if you go to police, they will ask you, “At what time did he rape you?” and they will ask you, “What time have you come here? That means you also consented. Where does it show that you fought back or tried to resist? Do not disturb us you leave we have other people to handle". One participant also mentioned that, in some instances, officials demand sex in exchange for pursuing a case. When their abusers offer bribes to these officials, these same officials dismiss their case while mocking and insulting them as victims. The chairperson might even tell you, “let us first have sex with you” and then after the other person comes and gives him money and he tell you, “you are useless. Theme 3: The Social and Psychological Toll of Failed Justice Systems Leads to Isolation, Strategies, and Further Vulnerability for GBV and IPV Survivors In the FGDs, participants revealed not only the consequences of GBV and IPV but also the additional burden caused by the failure of systems meant to uphold the rule of law and protect them as victims. The participants reported that some victims relocated from the communities where they were violated to start their lives all over. These new locations are often rural areas, typically characterized by limited opportunities. Some go to the villages where people there do not know what happened to them. The high level of bribery and corruption within agencies that are supposed to serve as custodians and upholders of justice was repeatedly highlighted by participants. This corruption became a signal for many to keep their experiences of violation to themselves, silently navigating the pain and burden that followed. Some others might want to report but they also do not have money to go to police…so they keep it to themselves and they feel the pain without sharing about it. One participant described how sexual abuse resulted in an unplanned pregnancy, which ultimately forced a victim into marrying her abuser due to fear of community stigma and the heavy burden of raising a child alone. …Some girls used to go to LCC to report that men who are responsible for their pregnancies were not supportive, but they would be asked for money for them to go and arrest a victim, but they did not have their money. However, even when the culprit would be called to the police station, he would not go there. Even if the LCC chairperson and woman leader did not help, they would instead tell you to get married. On the side of in-laws, there is nothing you would tell them so you would be left in suspense. Another painful outcome identified by the participants was suicide. Some victims of IPV and GBV have ended their lives due to the weight of the injustices and the emotional toll they face. …Some commit suicide by hanging, others take poison. The final quote we identified in relation to the burden placed on survivors was about “community stigma,” which has silenced victims. Yes, most people don’t report because of fear of shame. 4.0 DISCUSSION As evident in this study, the poor financial capacity of women places them in a state of economic vulnerability, which is a major factor driving GBV, particularly IPV, among AGYW in informal settlements ( 22 – 24 ). Their disempowerment, through limited access to education, employment, and resources, fosters dependence on abusive partners and prevents them from affording legal representation or pursuing justice ( 25 , 26 ) This economic marginalization of women is not incidental but rather structurally embedded in Uganda’s systems. These systems perpetuate poverty among women by restricting access to empowerment opportunities and making it difficult for them to seek justice. On the basis of evidence from this study’s participants, these issues not only contribute to increased exposure of AGYW to GBV and IPV but also limit their access to justice. Bribery and corruption within law enforcement contribute to the injustice faced by the AGYW, who has experienced GBV and IPV in Uganda. According to Transparency International, Uganda’s judicial system is known to be highly corrupt and is among the 40 most corrupt countries in the world ( 26 , 27 ). As a result, the prospect of fair justice for survivors of IPV and GBV remains distant. The situation in a country such as Uganda, which faces significant economic challenges, has contributed to the rise in bribery and corrupt practices among government institutions and society at large. This is largely due to weak institutions, a lack of political will, and socioeconomic hardships such as poverty, which have eroded public trust and hindered national development. ( 25 , 26 ) This high level of corruption has infiltrated law enforcement and the judicial system, including the police, LCC, and courts of law, which are the three major systems identified in this study. This is evident in findings from a survey-based study in Uganda, which revealed that 55 percent of Ugandans believe that most or all civil servants in their country are corrupt ( 28 ). The study also revealed that seven out of ten people who asked for police help were asked for a bribe before their case could be investigated ( 28 ). The demand for bribes is not limited to money and gifts but also includes demands for sex ( 29 ). For the participants in this study, being asked for bribes not only reduced the likelihood that their case would be heard but also revictimized them. Over the years, Uganda has established policies to help curb corruption within systems such as law enforcement agencies and the judicial system, particularly in handling GBV and IPV cases. Among the key initiatives was the establishment of a legal and policy framework, including the Constitution, the Domestic Violence Act of 2010, and the National Policy on the Elimination of GBV, which was introduced in 2019 as a five-year plan. These measures supported the development of innovative, evidence-based programs within Ugandan civil society, which demonstrated a decline in GBV cases. Nevertheless, the impact of these efforts has been limited by persistent challenges such as weak implementation of laws and policies, inadequate budgeting and resourcing, poor data collection, and outdated institutional procedures ( 30 ). These weak and ineffective policies have contributed to a lack of oversight regarding the actions and operations of public servants ( 31 ). This has turned the justice-seeking process into a transactional system that favors the highest bidder ( 31 ). In most cases, the abuser is the person with more power and resources. This study has shown that the cost of bribery and corrupt practices within Uganda’s criminal justice system is a burden heavily borne by survivors, who are not only vulnerable but also disadvantaged. These practices have also undermined any evidence they may have, including through intimidation and the offering of bribes to witnesses whose testimonies could have strengthened their cases. To address this issue and ensure free and fair justice for GBV and IPV survivors, this study recommends that Uganda’s criminal justice system undergo considerable reform, including both existing and new policies. AGYW in informal settlements are systematically excluded from systems designed to protect them. This exclusion is reinforced by the absence of mechanisms for anonymous reporting and independent investigation of corruption, which leaves survivors without voice, representation, or recourse. These survivors are not only harmed by their abusers but are also often revictimized by the very institutions meant to protect them. This limitation has discouraged survivors from seeking justice. This study identifies critical gaps that must be addressed to mitigate this issue. AGYW need dedicated representation, including the presence of an advocate for victims' rights, to ensure that their abuse is reported and addressed appropriately. Additionally, while anonymous reporting mechanisms are essential for exposing corruption, it is important to recognize that criminal charges still require formal identification and due processes. Therefore, a multisectoral approach is recommended to ensure active representation of survivors' voices, with a focus on improving access to justice. Additionally, the provision of mechanisms that allow survivors to report their cases anonymously, along with fair and corruption-free investigations, is highly recommended. The devaluation of women is not solely economic; it is also deeply gendered. As one participant noted, an LCC told her, “ You women overrate yourselves…” This statement reflects entrenched patriarchal attitudes that normalize abuse, blame victims, and justify practices such as forcing survivors to marry their perpetrators. A longstanding culture of victim blaming, perpetuated by both social norms and institutional practices, isolates survivors and subjects them to repeated trauma ( 32 , 33 ). These patriarchal communities and cultural norms are embedded in institutional responses that silence GBV and IPV survivors while normalizing abuse ( 34 ). Addressing these issues requires a dual approach that involves expanding economic and educational opportunities for women and transforming the social norms and attitudes that sustain gender-based violence. Without such transformation, legal and policy reforms alone will remain insufficient. The syndemic of cultural norms, economic disempowerment, and institutional corruption in Uganda creates a complex adaptive system that traps AGYW involved in GBV and IPV in cycles of violence and poverty ( 35 – 37 ). Similarly, the harmful practices within the law enforcement system that promote injustice may be reinforced by the realities these actors face in their roles as “street-level bureaucrats,” who not only interact directly with citizens as they implement policies but also grapple with significant challenges ( 38 ) This is not to justify bribery or corruption but also to acknowledge that there are underlying and important pressures and features embedded in the system that must be uncovered. Doing so can help identify the hidden drivers of injustice and support the development of collectively agreed-upon recommendations by all stakeholders to correct the dominant culture within the system, which has contributed to the revictimization of survivors. This understanding is essential for transforming the normative, regulatory, and operational dimensions of the system and for redefining system boundaries to include marginalized voices, particularly AGYW in informal settlements, which are often excluded from policy design and implementation. The Ugandan judicial response to IPV and GBV reflects the characteristics of a nonlinear and dynamic system, which means that effective interventions must be flexible, iterative, and responsive to emergent patterns ( 39 ) In light of the cultural context, where masculinity and patriarchal norms are deeply embedded, there is a need for a dynamic social systems model that emphasizes structural interventions across the macro, meso, and micro levels. This includes addressing not only national policy but also community norms, social networks, and access to services that obstruct justice for AGYW ( 40 ) This approach is essential for designing sustainable and transformative change in the fight against GBV and IPV in Uganda. The persistence and recurrence of injustice, especially for victims of GBV and IPV from low socioeconomic backgrounds, has fueled deep mistrust in Uganda’s criminal justice system. Our findings align with those of a previous study, which confirms that corruption disproportionately impacts the poor. As a result, bribery has become a barrier to accessing the justice they seek, reinforcing the mistrust they feel toward a system that is meant to protect them ( 31 ). To restore trust and improve access to justice, we recommend targeted training for criminal justice personnel, including police, LCC, and prosecutors. These trainings should focus on anticorruption practices, gender sensitivity, trauma-informed care, and legal procedures for handling GBV and IPV cases. They should also be accompanied by policy reforms and stringent public accountability mechanisms, including clear consequences for noncompliant officers. Additionally, mechanisms must be strengthened to allow AGYW to safely report both GBV and IPV incidents, as well as instances of corruption or bribery. A critical challenge remains the demand for concrete evidence, particularly in rape cases. In resource-scarce informal settlements, this is often unattainable. We recommend increased support from government stakeholders, law enforcement, and victim support organizations to pilot and scale such technologies. The devastating impact of GBV and IPV extends beyond immediate violence, often forcing victims into displacement and inflicting severe mental health consequences, along with a profound degradation of their dignity. Instead of receiving support, these survivors often face ostracism within their own communities, which should ideally be havens of healing. This study recommends the provision of comprehensive mental health services and support to rebuild trust and restore the impaired mental well-being and dignity of these individuals. CONCLUSION A key limitation of this study is that participants were not recruited from cities across Uganda, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. However, the study highlights systemic and structural failures that perpetuate GBV and IPV among AGYW in Uganda’s informal settlements. It also calls for urgent multisectoral reforms, survivor-centered justice mechanisms, and innovative tools to restore trust, ensure accountability, and protect the dignity and rights of survivors. Abbreviations 1. USAID United States Agency for International Development 2. GBV Gender–Based Violence 3. AGYW Adolescent Girls and Young Women 4. FGDs Focus Group Discussions 5. IPV Intimate Partner Violence 6. SSA Sub–Saharan Africa 7. LCC Local Council Court 8. MSP Masters of Sustainable Peacebuilding Declarations Funding: This study was supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Ethics approval and consent to participate This study was approved by the Makerere University Research Ethics Committee, the Medical College of Wisconsin Institutional Review Board, and the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology. Written informed consent was obtained from participants aged 15 years and older, in accordance with Uganda’s age of consent for sexual and reproductive health. All procedures involving human participants were conducted in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional and national research committees and with the 2013 revision of the Declaration of Helsinki. Consent for publication Not applicable Availability of data and materials All relevant data are within the paper Competing interest The authors declare that they have no competing interests Funding This study was funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Author’ contributions TO, FB and JDG contributed to concept and design, data analysis, interpretation, preparation of draft manuscript and providing critique. TO and JDG contributed to the interpretation and preparation of draft manuscript. TO, MB, RA, and CI contributed to the conception and design, data analysis, interpretation and preparation of draft manuscript. JK, AN, KB and JDG contributed to the conception and design, and providing critiques. All authors have read and approved the final manuscript. Acknowledgements The authors would like to thank the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for funding this study. We also extend our gratitude to the Institute of Health and Humanity at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Makerere University School of Public Health, and the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology for their institutional support. Special thanks to the research staff, facilitators, and community partners who assisted with data collection, and to all the adolescent girls and women who courageously shared their experiences and participated in this study. References Bradbury-Jones C, Appleton J V., Clark M, Paavilainen E. A Profile of Gender-Based Violence Research in Europe: Findings From a Focused Mapping Review and Synthesis. Vol. 20, Trauma, Violence, and Abuse. SAGE Publications Ltd; 2019. p. 470–83. Global database on Violence against Women | UN Women Data Hub [Internet]. [cited 2025 Jan 23]. Available from: https://data.unwomen.org/global-database-on-violence-against-women Bukuluki P, Kisaakye P, Wandiembe SP, Bulenzi-Gulere G, Mulindwa B, Bazira D, et al. 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Global prevalence of intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic among women: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Womens Health. 2024 Dec 1;24(1). Uzoho IC, Baptiste-Roberts K, Animasahun A, Bronner Y. The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Against Women. Vol. 53, International Journal of Social Determinants of Health and Health Services. SAGE Publications Inc.; 2023. p. 494–507. Gebrewahd GT, Gebremeskel GG, Tadesse DB. Intimate partner violence against reproductive age women during COVID-19 pandemic in northern Ethiopia 2020: A community-based cross-sectional study. Reprod Health. 2020 Oct 7;17(1). Winter SC, Obara LM, McMahon S. Intimate partner violence: A key correlate of women’s physical and mental health in informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. PLoS One. 2020;15(4). Gibbs A, Jewkes R, Willan S, Washington L. Associations between poverty, mental health and substance use, gender power, and intimate partner violence amongst young (18-30) women and men in urban informal settlements in South Africa: A cross-sectional study and structural equation model. PLoS One. 2018 Oct 1;13(10). Decker MR, Peitzmeier S, Olumide A, Acharya R, Ojengbede O, Covarrubias L, et al. Prevalence and health impact of intimate partner violence and non-partner sexual violence among female adolescents aged 15-19 years in vulnerable urban environments: A multi-country study. Journal of Adolescent Health. 2014 Dec 1;55(6):S58–67. Gil D, Domínguez P, Undurraga EA, Valenzuela E. Employment Loss in Informal Settlements during the Covid-19 Pandemic: Evidence from Chile. Journal of Urban Health. 2021 Oct 1;98(5):622–34. Demeke MG, Shibeshi ET. Intimate partner violence against women of reproductive age and associated factors during COVID-19 pandemic in Northern Ethiopia, 2021: A community-based cross-sectional study. Front Glob Womens Health. 2022;3. Gender-based violence | Global Focus [Internet]. [cited 2025 Jan 23]. Available from: https://reporting.unhcr.org/global-appeal-2025/outcome-areas/gender-based-violence Ministry of Gender L and SD. The National Policy on Elimination of Gender Based Violence in Uganda. 2016. Kiguli J. Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 on the SafeBangle Intervention on Gender-Based Violence and Intimate Partner Violence using the SafeBangle Intervention Principal Investigator. 2023. supplementary file . Braun V, Clarke V. Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qual Res Psychol. 2006 Jan;3(2):77–101. Gibbs A, Jewkes R, Willan S, Washington L. Associations between poverty, mental health and substance use, gender power, and intimate partner violence amongst young (18-30) women and men in urban informal settlements in South Africa: A cross-sectional study and structural equation model. PLoS One. 2018 Oct 1;13(10). Muluneh MD, Francis L, Agho K, Stulz V. A systematic review and meta-analysis of associated factors of gender-based violence against women in sub-Saharan Africa. Vol. 18, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. MDPI AG; 2021. Mthembu J, Mabaso M, Reis S, Zuma K, Zungu N. Prevalence and factors associated with intimate partner violence among the adolescent girls and young women in South Africa: findings the 2017 population based cross-sectional survey. BMC Public Health. 2021 Dec 1;21(1). Correspondent [, Nambassa G, Qodir Z. Brawijaya Addressing Corruption and Government Challenges: The Case of Uganda’s Strategic Developments Policies. Vol. 11, Jurnal Transformasi Global. 2024. Annelie Areskär Kaddu. Corruption risks and risk assessment processes among civil society organizations A study of five organizations in Kampala, Uganda. 2024; Corruption Perceptions Index 2024 - Transparency.org [Internet]. [cited 2025 May 22]. Available from: https://www.transparency.org/en/cpi/2024/index/uga Makanga Ronald Kakumba. A few bad apples or a rotten orchard Ugandans cite brutality and corruption among police failings. Kubbe I, Baez-Camargo C, Scharbatke-Church C. Corruption and Social Norms: A New Arrow in the Quiver. 2025; Available from: https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-polisci-051120- Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls in Uganda Existing Frameworks and Commitments to Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls innUganda. Saxton J. Corruption in Uganda [Internet]. Vol. 2022, Ballard Brief. 2022. Available from: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/ballardbriefAvailableat:https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/ballardbrief/vol2022/iss2/2 Camp AR. Scholarship @ GEORGETOWN LAW Scholarship @ GEORGETOWN LAW 2022 From Experiencing Abuse to Seeking Protection: Examining the From Experiencing Abuse to Seeking Protection: Examining the Shame of Intimate Partner Violence Shame of Intimate Partner Violence [Internet]. Available from: https://scholarship.law.georgetown.edu/facpub/2480https://ssrn.com/abstract=4323805 Meral G. Breaking theeCycle offGender-based Violence TRANSLATING EVIDENCE INTO ACTION FORRVICTIM/SURVIVOR-CENTRED GOVERNANCE. Sangeetha J, Mohan S, Hariharasudan A, Nawaz N. Strategic analysis of intimate partner violence (IPV) and cycle of violence in the autobiographical text –When I Hit You. Heliyon. 2022 Jun;8(6):e09734. Donella H. Meadows. Thinking in Systems. Johnson A, Papi-Thornton D, Stauch J. Student Guide to Mapping a System · 1 Student Guide to Mapping a System Student Guide to Mapping a System · 2 Acknowledgements. Foster-Fishman PG, Nowell B, Yang H. Putting the system back into systems change: A framework for understanding and changing organizational and community systems. Am J Community Psychol. 2007 Jun;39(3–4):197–215. Lipsky Michael. STREET-LEVEL BUREAUCRACY DILEMMAS OF THE INDIVIDUAL IN PUBLIC SERVICES MICHAEL LIPSKY. Ratnapalan S, Lang D. Health Care Organizations as Complex Adaptive Systems. Health Care Manager. 2020 Jan 1;39(1):18–23. Latkin C, Weeks MR, Glasman L, Galletly C, Albarracin D. A dynamic social systems model for considering structural factors in HIV prevention and detection. AIDS Behav. 2010 Dec;14(SUPPL. 2). Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Supplementary Files supplementaryfile.pdf APPENDIX.docx Cite Share Download PDF Status: Under Review Version 1 posted Reviews received at journal 16 Oct, 2025 Reviewers agreed at journal 06 Oct, 2025 Reviewers agreed at journal 03 Oct, 2025 Reviewers invited by journal 03 Oct, 2025 Editor assigned by journal 01 Oct, 2025 Editor invited by journal 12 Sep, 2025 Submission checks completed at journal 11 Sep, 2025 First submitted to journal 11 Sep, 2025 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. 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05:45:44","extension":"docx","order_by":2,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":18560,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"APPENDIX.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7472683/v1/cd30acdc2ec3859d719e7acf.docx"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"A Qualitative Analysis of Gender-Based and Intimate Partner Violence Experiences Among Adolescent Girls and Women in Informal Settlements in Uganda in Navigating the Justice System","fulltext":[{"header":"1.0 BACKGROUND","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) remains alarmingly high, ranking among the most widespread human rights violations globally (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). GBV disproportionately affects adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), with nearly one in three women worldwide experiencing physical or sexual violence at least once in their lifetime (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e). GBV has been defined extensively in the literature (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e) One definition describes GBV as violence inflicted on an individual, driven by gender-based inequalities and power imbalances (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). Another defines it as any harmful act imposed against an individual\u0026rsquo;s will, particularly againt women and girls, and rooted in socially constructed gender norms and distinctions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmong the various forms of GBV, intimate partner violence (IPV) is the most prevalent (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR7 CR8\" citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e) IPV, including sexual, psychological, physical, and financial abuse inflicted by current or former intimate partners (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR10\" citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e). This pervasive form of violence continues to have devastating consequences for millions of women and girls globally (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGBV is especially severe for women and girls living in informal settlements. Factors such as rural-to-urban migration, a lack of affordable housing, economic vulnerability, underemployment, unemployment, discrimination, marginalization, displacement caused by conflict, natural disasters, and climate change significantly increase vulnerability (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e) These informal settlements are often characterized by poor infrastructure, overcrowding, and inadequate access to basic services, further compounding vulnerabilities (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e). Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), in particular, has experienced a rapid increase in its urban population living in such settlements, with two-thirds of urban dwellers residing in these conditions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e). The challenges of informal settlements not only exacerbate GBV but also significantly increase the prevalence of IPV due to the associated risk factors (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR13\" citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e). The lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted major sources of economic sustenance for those in informal settlements, who often depend on work in the informal sector, such as ambulatory vending, which disproportionately affected this population (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e). COVID-19 led to a surge in unemployment, placing women and girls under severe economic strain, which in turn heightened their risk of experiencing violence (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e). Perpetrators often exploit the economic vulnerability of women and girls to commit acts of sexual violence (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e). A study in Uganda reported that 46% of participants across the country reported knowing at least one person who had been a victim of GBV during the pandemic, an indicator of its economic and social burden on women and girls (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGlobally, SSA has the highest prevalence of GBV. In Uganda, 55.5% of women have reported experiencing physical or sexual IPV in their lifetime, whereas 34.6% have endured such violence within the past 12 months (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e). Consequently, Uganda has emerged as one of the top ten countries with the highest budget for addressing GBV, allocating an estimated \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e12.1\u0026nbsp;million to these efforts (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e). Despite the alarming statistics, Uganda has implemented only four key policies to address the crisis, leaving countless women and girls vulnerable to the devastating impacts of GBV, particularly IPV. Thus far, Uganda has implemented the National Policy on the Elimination of Gender-Based Violence, established a legal and policy framework designed to operationalize constitutional provisions that address the GBV, a multisectoral approach, to ensure effective and efficient service delivery to survivors, and the National Action Plan, which was developed to guide and support the implementation of the GBV policy (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDespite these efforts, GBV, particularly IPV, has remained a persistent issue, raising the question of whether the problem is not associated with the policies themselves but rather with their enforcement and implementation. Despite widespread attention, the prevalence of GBV has increased, with particularly severe impacts on vulnerable populations such as AGYW in already marginalized communities such as informal settlements in Uganda. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of AGYW in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda, during the COVID-19 pandemic to investigate how upstream systemic factors, economic burdens and social factors have contributed to the exacerbation of GBV and IPV in these communities. Through thematic analysis, we examine their experiences of seeking justice and identify the social and economic factors that have impacted this process in these affected groups. This study also aims to provide recommendations for policies and future research.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2.0 METHODS","content":"\u003cp\u003eProcedure\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis qualitative study analyzed data from focus group discussions (FGDs) conducted with the AGYW in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda. The FGDs was developed for this study and this study being the first from the discussion.(\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e) A key informant guide was developed to guide the FGDs and this is available upon request as a supplementary file. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e) FGDs aimed to explore the experiences of GBV and perspectives on existing reporting mechanisms. Research activities were conducted in two informal settlements, Bwaise and Kinawataka, where AGYW are at high risk for GBV. The FGDs was guided by questions to explore AGYW experiences with GBV, barriers to seeking help, community attitudes toward GBV, and potential facilitators of intervention adoption.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe FGDs were facilitated by experienced research assistants who received training on how to obtain informed consent, ethical conduct of research, and focus group interviewing techniques. The training included role-playing exercises to practice conducting focus group interviews with appropriate probing. The FGDs were conducted in the participants\u0026rsquo; local language, Luganda, ensuring cultural and contextual relevance. Sessions were audio-recorded with the participants\u0026rsquo; consent. Transcriptions were anonymized to maintain confidentiality.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e All study activities were reviewed and approved by the Makerere University Research Ethics Committee, Medical College of Wisconsin Institutional Review Board and Uganda National Council for Science and Technology. Written informed consent was obtained from participants who were 15 years or older since that is the age of consent for sexual and reproductive age health in Uganda.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSample Selection\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA total of four FGDs were conducted with AGYW in the informal settlements of Bwaise and Kinawataka in Kampala, Uganda.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e AGYW who participated in the FGDs were recruited through convenience sampling through the SOMERO organization, which is known for providing advocacy work on GBV and offering psychosocial support for AGYW who are survivors of GBV in Uganda. FGDs was stratified by age group: 10\u0026ndash;14 years, 15\u0026ndash;18 years, 19\u0026ndash;24 years, and 25 years and above (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). Informed consent was gotten from parents of those less than 18 years of age. Each discussion consisted of approximately 8\u0026ndash;10 participants, ensuring diverse perspectives while maintaining a manageable group size for in-depth conversations. The eligibility criteria for participation included being female, residing in Bwaise or Kinawataka informal settlements, being aged 10 years or older and being willing to discuss experiences related to GBV and intervention strategies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Written informed consent was obtained from all potential participants. The consent form was read aloud to AGYW in their local language, Luganda. The understanding of the risks and benefits of the project was assessed before their participation. Additionally, the participants were asked to keep the information disclosed in the FGDs confidential. The discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and anonymized for qualitative analysis.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDemographics summary table\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFocus Group Discussion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAge Category (Yrs)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eN for Kiwanataka\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eN for Bwaise\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10\u0026ndash;14\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15\u0026ndash;18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19\u0026ndash;24\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;25\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTotal:\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAnalysis Approach\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe research question guiding this study is as follows: \u0026ldquo;What economic, legal, and social factors do AGYW in Uganda face after experiencing GBV and IPV, and how do these factors affect their ability to seek justice?\u0026rdquo;. This qualitative analysis follows an inductive approach (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e), which recognizes that there is no single prescribed methodology for coding and analyzing qualitative data. Instead, the analysis process is inherently subjective and requires reflexivity (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e). To develop the codebook, two out of the six translated focus group transcripts were read in detail. The codebook included primary codes, each defined as precisely as possible, accounting for various illustrations presented in the transcripts. Where necessary, subcodes were identified and similarly defined. This initial version of the codebook was reviewed, and the draft was carefully modified until all were satisfied that the coding tree accurately captured the interview content. Following this review, a second round of coding was conducted, incorporating all the FGDs transcripts. The codebook was then revisited and refined to better capture the essence of the data. This iterative process was repeated across all FGDs transcripts, leading to the development of themes. Representative quotes were identified from participant narratives to support each theme. To ensure that the themes accurately reflected the data, the process was repeated for consistency and rigor. Qualitative analysis was conducted via MAXQDA software.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"3.0 RESULTS","content":"\u003cp\u003eFindings from the FGDs revealed an overview of the causes, forms, locations, and outcomes of abuse. Through thematic analysis, three major themes were identified. Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e (see Appendix) presents direct quotes from participants that illustrate each of these themes. The three themes \u0026quot;Economic and Structural Barriers in the Justice System, Institutional Betrayal and Abuse of Power by Justice System Actors, and The Social and Psychological Toll of Failed Justice Systems\u0026quot; collectively illustrate how upstream systemic characteristics such as economic hardship, bureaucratic complexity, and abuse of authority interact to reinforce a cycle of injustice for GBV and IPV survivors in informal settlements. These systemic failures not only obstruct access to justice but also foster environments of exploitation, mistrust, and revictimization. As a result, survivors are left to navigate emotional turmoil, social stigma, and harmful coping mechanisms, often in isolation\u0026rdquo;.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.1 Causes of Abuse, Forms of Abuse, Where Abuse Happens, and Outcomes\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOn the basis of the lived experiences and testimonies gathered during the focus groups, the participants provided evidence regarding the causes, forms, and locations where these abuses take place in their communities. The participants discussed the causes of GBV 90 times. Forms of GBV were referenced 84 times, with six distinct types identified. These include spiritual exploitation, where religious leaders take advantage of vulnerable AGYW to exploit them financially and sexually under the pretense of religion. Financial exploitation was also reported, where participants described being deprived of income after working for exploiters. Sexual exploitation and violence were the most prevalent, with 53 mentions, often involving abusers who used survivors\u0026rsquo; financial vulnerability as an opportunity to take advantage of them sexually. Other forms included verbal abuse, domestic abuse, and physical abuse. With respect to where GBV occurs, participants identified major locations on 40 different occasions. The home was the most frequently mentioned and was cited at least 18 times. Other places included the workplace, public places, religious centers, roadside, and transportation. The outcomes of GBV were mentioned 88 times across the FGDs. Some of the identified outcomes include unplanned pregnancy, unplanned marriage, abortion, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, shame, migration and relocation, fear of remarrying, discontinuation of education, health complications, death, and suicide.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFigure \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e below illustrates these features.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMen used to stay home and had no jobs so they would mistreat women and beat them and at times they would chase the women away. You would find a man at home with his children, and he would do everything for them. This at times resulted in men raping their own children and impregnating them.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe quote above illustrates how economic deprivation acts as a major driver for men traditionally seen as \u0026ldquo;providers\u0026rdquo; to become abusers. When they were unable to fulfill this role, their frustrations led some to commit acts of sexual abuse and domestic violence to reassert their lost sense of masculinity.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWe as girls were still younger... We needed basic items in that if a man just came and showed you money, you were forced to accept him so that you can get what you need\u0026hellip;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThese conditions place AGYW in situations of extreme vulnerability, as their basic needs and hunger have become increasingly difficult to ignore. This period exposed the desperation of victims, many of whom sought ways to survive by relying on men for financial support.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026hellip; I end up going with men, which may result in unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection. That issue brought many problems, and I remember there was no money; then, foods were compromised, so this led to prostitution.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThese survival strategies have led to increased cases of sexually transmitted infections (STI), unplanned pregnancies, sexual exploitation, and related consequences.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThese things happened in families, at workplaces and on the roads/paths. They happened everywhere even in churches.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe FGDs identified places where these abuses occurred. There were cases of these abuses occurring in the home, workplace, churches, and roadside.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3.2 Theme 1: Economic and Structural Barriers in the Justice System Undermine Access to Justice for Victims of GBV and IPV in Informal Settlements\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe participants reported that one of the major hindrances to seeking justice among AGYW who have experienced GBV in informal settlements in Uganda is the issue of \u0026ldquo;economic corruption and exploitation\u0026rdquo;. This refers to a system where unauthorized financial payments are demanded by those entrusted with upholding the law and supporting GBV survivors. Instead of offering protection, these officials require bribes from survivors of sexual abuse or exploitation before providing any assistance in reporting their abusers. The participants described in detail the deep-rooted bribery and corruption within local police departments. According to the participants, justice seeking has become a commodity that is accessible only to those who are financially secure, a game where the higher bidder, whether offender or victim, often wins.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026hellip; Therefore, today\u0026rsquo;s police needs to be approached when you also have some good money in that if the other person pays 100,000, you also pay 200,000 to arrest them.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAccording to the study participants, these corrupt practices are not limited to street officers but extend to top elected officials, such as local council court members (LCC), who are known to demand even larger bribes than the police before processing a GBV case. According to one of the participants, successfully receiving a case charged to the court does not exempt them from these challenges, as the judiciary system is similarly plagued with corruption and exploitation.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA participant mentioned that evidence in the form of human witnesses, which could help strengthen a victim\u0026rsquo;s case, is often undermined by witness intimidation. Witnesses are frequently threatened and discouraged from testifying, with some fearing unlawful detention by the police.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026hellip;Ordinary people also fear being detained at the police in the name of being witnesses and saying let everyone be for themselves and God for us all \u0026hellip;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSystemic failure was identified by this study participants as a type of structural barrier to justice. It was found to be responsible for delays in justice through bureaucratic complexities. One participant spoke about the long delays in pursuing a GBV case, stating that this often discourages victims from reporting or disclosing their experiences to authorities at all.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026hellip;they were going to report to police but then they said the police might take long to help them or even not handle their case well \u0026hellip;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAnother participant shared how difficult the administrative and operational procedures are when seeking justice through the court system and how this becomes a barrier to pursuing justice.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTheme 2: Institutional Betrayal and Abuse of Power by Justice System Actors Contribute to the Exploitation of GBV Survivors and Mistrust\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAnother theme that emerged in this study was the widespread abuse of power by agencies entrusted with upholding law and order, particularly in cases involving GBV and IPV. A participant noted how, before she could even report a case of IPV, her abuser had already threatened her and worked to undermine her case before the police. In another case, the police themselves rested on harmful gender stereotypes, reinforcing discriminatory attitudes that dismiss the pain and burden carried by women.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026hellip;the policeman said, \u0026ldquo;the problem with you women is that you overrate yourselves. Why would you want to fight the man you cannot handle? I have closed this case; go report elsewhere.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAnother participant reported her disappointment in women who held leadership positions but failed to uphold law and order or protect the dignity of victims. During one of the FGDs, women leaders were described as being unfit for their roles.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThat is exactly what is in the government facilities. Women are so abusive in government facilities, but a man will treat you well but a woman.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe participants identified a high level of mistrust with government agencies. For example, one of the participants explained how an initially supportive reaction to cases by an official does not necessarily mean that justice would follow. She mentioned how returning the next day to continue pursuing cases could result in the case being closed without specific reasons. Once a case is dismissed, it is abruptly cut off and often cannot be reopened or processed in the future.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;\u003cem\u003e\u0026hellip;However, you see some LCC chairpersons do not care. You may forward your issue to them, and at that particular moment, they may listen, and they advise you to come back the next day. When you go the next day, he might tell you they are on another engagement somewhere, and they just dissolve the thing\u0026quot;.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAnother participant described how cases are sometimes dismissed through the use of misleading questions that victims cannot answer accurately or through the outright denial of their legitimacy.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u0026quot;Definitely it ends there because even if you go to police, they will ask you, \u0026ldquo;At what time did he rape you?\u0026rdquo; and they will ask you, \u0026ldquo;What time have you come here? That means you also consented. Where does it show that you fought back or tried to resist? Do not disturb us you leave we have other people to handle\u0026quot;.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOne participant also mentioned that, in some instances, officials demand sex in exchange for pursuing a case. When their abusers offer bribes to these officials, these same officials dismiss their case while mocking and insulting them as victims.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe chairperson might even tell you, \u0026ldquo;let us first have sex with you\u0026rdquo; and then after the other person comes and gives him money and he tell you, \u0026ldquo;you are useless.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTheme 3: The Social and Psychological Toll of Failed Justice Systems Leads to Isolation, Strategies, and Further Vulnerability for GBV and IPV Survivors\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn the FGDs, participants revealed not only the consequences of GBV and IPV but also the additional burden caused by the failure of systems meant to uphold the rule of law and protect them as victims. The participants reported that some victims relocated from the communities where they were violated to start their lives all over. These new locations are often rural areas, typically characterized by limited opportunities.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSome go to the villages where people there do not know what happened to them.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe high level of bribery and corruption within agencies that are supposed to serve as custodians and upholders of justice was repeatedly highlighted by participants. This corruption became a signal for many to keep their experiences of violation to themselves, silently navigating the pain and burden that followed.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSome others might want to report but they also do not have money to go to police\u0026hellip;so they keep it to themselves and they feel the pain without sharing about it.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOne participant described how sexual abuse resulted in an unplanned pregnancy, which ultimately forced a victim into marrying her abuser due to fear of community stigma and the heavy burden of raising a child alone.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026hellip;Some girls used to go to LCC to report that men who are responsible for their pregnancies were not supportive, but they would be asked for money for them to go and arrest a victim, but they did not have their money. However, even when the culprit would be called to the police station, he would not go there. Even if the LCC chairperson and woman leader did not help, they would instead tell you to get married. On the side of in-laws, there is nothing you would tell them so you would be left in suspense.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAnother painful outcome identified by the participants was suicide. Some victims of IPV and GBV have ended their lives due to the weight of the injustices and the emotional toll they face.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026hellip;Some commit suicide by hanging, others take poison.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe final quote we identified in relation to the burden placed on survivors was about \u0026ldquo;community stigma,\u0026rdquo; which has silenced victims.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes, most people don\u0026rsquo;t report because of fear of shame.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4.0 DISCUSSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eAs evident in this study, the poor financial capacity of women places them in a state of economic vulnerability, which is a major factor driving GBV, particularly IPV, among AGYW in informal settlements (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR23\" citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e). Their disempowerment, through limited access to education, employment, and resources, fosters dependence on abusive partners and prevents them from affording legal representation or pursuing justice (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e) This economic marginalization of women is not incidental but rather structurally embedded in Uganda\u0026rsquo;s systems. These systems perpetuate poverty among women by restricting access to empowerment opportunities and making it difficult for them to seek justice. On the basis of evidence from this study\u0026rsquo;s participants, these issues not only contribute to increased exposure of AGYW to GBV and IPV but also limit their access to justice.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBribery and corruption within law enforcement contribute to the injustice faced by the AGYW, who has experienced GBV and IPV in Uganda. According to Transparency International, Uganda\u0026rsquo;s judicial system is known to be highly corrupt and is among the 40 most corrupt countries in the world (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e27\u003c/span\u003e). As a result, the prospect of fair justice for survivors of IPV and GBV remains distant. The situation in a country such as Uganda, which faces significant economic challenges, has contributed to the rise in bribery and corrupt practices among government institutions and society at large. This is largely due to weak institutions, a lack of political will, and socioeconomic hardships such as poverty, which have eroded public trust and hindered national development. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e) This high level of corruption has infiltrated law enforcement and the judicial system, including the police, LCC, and courts of law, which are the three major systems identified in this study. This is evident in findings from a survey-based study in Uganda, which revealed that 55 percent of Ugandans believe that most or all civil servants in their country are corrupt (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e28\u003c/span\u003e). The study also revealed that seven out of ten people who asked for police help were asked for a bribe before their case could be investigated (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e28\u003c/span\u003e). The demand for bribes is not limited to money and gifts but also includes demands for sex (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e29\u003c/span\u003e). For the participants in this study, being asked for bribes not only reduced the likelihood that their case would be heard but also revictimized them.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOver the years, Uganda has established policies to help curb corruption within systems such as law enforcement agencies and the judicial system, particularly in handling GBV and IPV cases. Among the key initiatives was the establishment of a legal and policy framework, including the Constitution, the Domestic Violence Act of 2010, and the National Policy on the Elimination of GBV, which was introduced in 2019 as a five-year plan. These measures supported the development of innovative, evidence-based programs within Ugandan civil society, which demonstrated a decline in GBV cases. Nevertheless, the impact of these efforts has been limited by persistent challenges such as weak implementation of laws and policies, inadequate budgeting and resourcing, poor data collection, and outdated institutional procedures (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e30\u003c/span\u003e). These weak and ineffective policies have contributed to a lack of oversight regarding the actions and operations of public servants (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e31\u003c/span\u003e). This has turned the justice-seeking process into a transactional system that favors the highest bidder (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e31\u003c/span\u003e). In most cases, the abuser is the person with more power and resources. This study has shown that the cost of bribery and corrupt practices within Uganda\u0026rsquo;s criminal justice system is a burden heavily borne by survivors, who are not only vulnerable but also disadvantaged. These practices have also undermined any evidence they may have, including through intimidation and the offering of bribes to witnesses whose testimonies could have strengthened their cases. To address this issue and ensure free and fair justice for GBV and IPV survivors, this study recommends that Uganda\u0026rsquo;s criminal justice system undergo considerable reform, including both existing and new policies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAGYW in informal settlements are systematically excluded from systems designed to protect them. This exclusion is reinforced by the absence of mechanisms for anonymous reporting and independent investigation of corruption, which leaves survivors without voice, representation, or recourse. These survivors are not only harmed by their abusers but are also often revictimized by the very institutions meant to protect them. This limitation has discouraged survivors from seeking justice. This study identifies critical gaps that must be addressed to mitigate this issue. AGYW need dedicated representation, including the presence of an advocate for victims' rights, to ensure that their abuse is reported and addressed appropriately. Additionally, while anonymous reporting mechanisms are essential for exposing corruption, it is important to recognize that criminal charges still require formal identification and due processes. Therefore, a multisectoral approach is recommended to ensure active representation of survivors' voices, with a focus on improving access to justice. Additionally, the provision of mechanisms that allow survivors to report their cases anonymously, along with fair and corruption-free investigations, is highly recommended.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe devaluation of women is not solely economic; it is also deeply gendered. As one participant noted, an LCC told her, \u0026ldquo;\u003cem\u003eYou women overrate yourselves\u0026hellip;\u0026rdquo;\u003c/em\u003e This statement reflects entrenched patriarchal attitudes that normalize abuse, blame victims, and justify practices such as forcing survivors to marry their perpetrators. A longstanding culture of victim blaming, perpetuated by both social norms and institutional practices, isolates survivors and subjects them to repeated trauma (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e32\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e33\u003c/span\u003e). These patriarchal communities and cultural norms are embedded in institutional responses that silence GBV and IPV survivors while normalizing abuse (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e34\u003c/span\u003e). Addressing these issues requires a dual approach that involves expanding economic and educational opportunities for women and transforming the social norms and attitudes that sustain gender-based violence. Without such transformation, legal and policy reforms alone will remain insufficient.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe syndemic of cultural norms, economic disempowerment, and institutional corruption in Uganda creates a complex adaptive system that traps AGYW involved in GBV and IPV in cycles of violence and poverty (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR36\" citationid=\"CR35\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e35\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e37\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, the harmful practices within the law enforcement system that promote injustice may be reinforced by the realities these actors face in their roles as \u0026ldquo;street-level bureaucrats,\u0026rdquo; who not only interact directly with citizens as they implement policies but also grapple with significant challenges (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e38\u003c/span\u003e) This is not to justify bribery or corruption but also to acknowledge that there are underlying and important pressures and features embedded in the system that must be uncovered. Doing so can help identify the hidden drivers of injustice and support the development of collectively agreed-upon recommendations by all stakeholders to correct the dominant culture within the system, which has contributed to the revictimization of survivors. This understanding is essential for transforming the normative, regulatory, and operational dimensions of the system and for redefining system boundaries to include marginalized voices, particularly AGYW in informal settlements, which are often excluded from policy design and implementation. The Ugandan judicial response to IPV and GBV reflects the characteristics of a nonlinear and dynamic system, which means that effective interventions must be flexible, iterative, and responsive to emergent patterns (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e39\u003c/span\u003e) In light of the cultural context, where masculinity and patriarchal norms are deeply embedded, there is a need for a dynamic social systems model that emphasizes structural interventions across the macro, meso, and micro levels. This includes addressing not only national policy but also community norms, social networks, and access to services that obstruct justice for AGYW (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR40\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e40\u003c/span\u003e) This approach is essential for designing sustainable and transformative change in the fight against GBV and IPV in Uganda.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe persistence and recurrence of injustice, especially for victims of GBV and IPV from low socioeconomic backgrounds, has fueled deep mistrust in Uganda\u0026rsquo;s criminal justice system. Our findings align with those of a previous study, which confirms that corruption disproportionately impacts the poor. As a result, bribery has become a barrier to accessing the justice they seek, reinforcing the mistrust they feel toward a system that is meant to protect them (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e31\u003c/span\u003e). To restore trust and improve access to justice, we recommend targeted training for criminal justice personnel, including police, LCC, and prosecutors. These trainings should focus on anticorruption practices, gender sensitivity, trauma-informed care, and legal procedures for handling GBV and IPV cases. They should also be accompanied by policy reforms and stringent public accountability mechanisms, including clear consequences for noncompliant officers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAdditionally, mechanisms must be strengthened to allow AGYW to safely report both GBV and IPV incidents, as well as instances of corruption or bribery. A critical challenge remains the demand for concrete evidence, particularly in rape cases. In resource-scarce informal settlements, this is often unattainable. We recommend increased support from government stakeholders, law enforcement, and victim support organizations to pilot and scale such technologies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe devastating impact of GBV and IPV extends beyond immediate violence, often forcing victims into displacement and inflicting severe mental health consequences, along with a profound degradation of their dignity. Instead of receiving support, these survivors often face ostracism within their own communities, which should ideally be havens of healing. This study recommends the provision of comprehensive mental health services and support to rebuild trust and restore the impaired mental well-being and dignity of these individuals.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"CONCLUSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eA key limitation of this study is that participants were not recruited from cities across Uganda, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. However, the study highlights systemic and structural failures that perpetuate GBV and IPV among AGYW in Uganda\u0026rsquo;s informal settlements. It also calls for urgent multisectoral reforms, survivor-centered justice mechanisms, and innovative tools to restore trust, ensure accountability, and protect the dignity and rights of survivors.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Abbreviations","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionList\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e1. USAID\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eUnited States Agency for International Development\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e2. GBV\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGender\u0026ndash;Based Violence\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e3. AGYW\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAdolescent Girls and Young Women\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e4. FGDs\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFocus Group Discussions\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e5. IPV\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIntimate Partner Violence\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e6. SSA\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSub\u0026ndash;Saharan Africa\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e7. LCC\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLocal Council Court\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e8. MSP\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMasters of Sustainable Peacebuilding\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003eFunding: This study was supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study was approved by the Makerere University Research Ethics Committee, the Medical College of Wisconsin Institutional Review Board, and the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology. Written informed consent was obtained from participants aged 15 years and older, in accordance with Uganda’s age of consent for sexual and reproductive health. All procedures involving human participants were conducted in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional and national research committees and with the 2013 revision of the Declaration of Helsinki.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent for publication\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAvailability of data and materials\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll relevant data are within the paper\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting interest\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare that they have no competing interests\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study was funded by the\u0026nbsp;United States Agency for International Development (USAID).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor’ contributions\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTO, FB and JDG contributed to concept and design, data analysis, interpretation, preparation of draft manuscript and providing critique. TO and JDG contributed to the interpretation and preparation of draft manuscript. TO, MB, RA, and CI contributed to the conception and design, data analysis, interpretation and preparation of draft manuscript. JK, AN, KB and JDG contributed to the conception and design, and providing critiques. All authors have read and approved the final manuscript.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgements\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors would like to thank the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for funding this study. We also extend our gratitude to the Institute of Health and Humanity at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Makerere University School of Public Health, and the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology for their institutional support. Special thanks to the research staff, facilitators, and community partners who assisted with data collection, and to all the adolescent girls and women who courageously shared their experiences and participated in this study.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBradbury-Jones C, Appleton J V., Clark M, Paavilainen E. A Profile of Gender-Based Violence Research in Europe: Findings From a Focused Mapping Review and Synthesis. Vol. 20, Trauma, Violence, and Abuse. SAGE Publications Ltd; 2019. p. 470\u0026ndash;83. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGlobal database on Violence against Women | UN Women Data Hub [Internet]. [cited 2025 Jan 23]. Available from: https://data.unwomen.org/global-database-on-violence-against-women\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBukuluki P, Kisaakye P, Wandiembe SP, Bulenzi-Gulere G, Mulindwa B, Bazira D, et al. Access to information on gender-based violence prevention during COVID-19 lockdown in Uganda: a cross-sectional study. EClinicalMedicine. 2023 Mar 1;57. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSinko L, James R, Hughesdon K. Healing After Gender-Based Violence: A Qualitative Metasynthesis Using Meta-Ethnography. Trauma Violence Abuse. 2022 Oct 1;23(4):1184\u0026ndash;203. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSengupta A, Calo M. Shifting gender roles: an analysis of violence against women in post-conflict Uganda. Dev Pract. 2016 Apr 2;26(3):285\u0026ndash;97. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSabri B, Hartley M, Saha J, Murray S, Glass N, Campbell JC. Effect of COVID-19 pandemic on women\u0026rsquo;s health and safety: A study of immigrant survivors of intimate partner violence. Health Care Women Int. 2020;41(11\u0026ndash;12):1294\u0026ndash;312. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLyons M, Brewer G. Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence during Lockdown and the COVID-19 Pandemic. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-021-00260-x\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDlamini NJ. Gender-Based Violence, Twin Pandemic to COVID-19. Crit Sociol (Eugene). 2021 Jul 1;47(4\u0026ndash;5):583\u0026ndash;90. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKifle ME, Aychiluhm SB, Anbesu EW. Global prevalence of intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic among women: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Womens Health. 2024 Dec 1;24(1). \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUzoho IC, Baptiste-Roberts K, Animasahun A, Bronner Y. The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Against Women. Vol. 53, International Journal of Social Determinants of Health and Health Services. SAGE Publications Inc.; 2023. p. 494\u0026ndash;507. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGebrewahd GT, Gebremeskel GG, Tadesse DB. Intimate partner violence against reproductive age women during COVID-19 pandemic in northern Ethiopia 2020: A community-based cross-sectional study. Reprod Health. 2020 Oct 7;17(1). \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWinter SC, Obara LM, McMahon S. Intimate partner violence: A key correlate of women\u0026rsquo;s physical and mental health in informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya. PLoS One. 2020;15(4). \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGibbs A, Jewkes R, Willan S, Washington L. Associations between poverty, mental health and substance use, gender power, and intimate partner violence amongst young (18-30) women and men in urban informal settlements in South Africa: A cross-sectional study and structural equation model. PLoS One. 2018 Oct 1;13(10). \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecker MR, Peitzmeier S, Olumide A, Acharya R, Ojengbede O, Covarrubias L, et al. Prevalence and health impact of intimate partner violence and non-partner sexual violence among female adolescents aged 15-19 years in vulnerable urban environments: A multi-country study. Journal of Adolescent Health. 2014 Dec 1;55(6):S58\u0026ndash;67. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGil D, Dom\u0026iacute;nguez P, Undurraga EA, Valenzuela E. Employment Loss in Informal Settlements during the Covid-19 Pandemic: Evidence from Chile. Journal of Urban Health. 2021 Oct 1;98(5):622\u0026ndash;34. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDemeke MG, Shibeshi ET. Intimate partner violence against women of reproductive age and associated factors during COVID-19 pandemic in Northern Ethiopia, 2021: A community-based cross-sectional study. Front Glob Womens Health. 2022;3. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGender-based violence | Global Focus [Internet]. [cited 2025 Jan 23]. Available from: https://reporting.unhcr.org/global-appeal-2025/outcome-areas/gender-based-violence\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMinistry of Gender L and SD. The National Policy on Elimination of Gender Based Violence in Uganda. 2016. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKiguli J. Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 on the SafeBangle Intervention on Gender-Based Violence and Intimate Partner Violence using the SafeBangle Intervention Principal Investigator. 2023. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003esupplementary file . \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBraun V, Clarke V. Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qual Res Psychol. 2006 Jan;3(2):77\u0026ndash;101. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGibbs A, Jewkes R, Willan S, Washington L. Associations between poverty, mental health and substance use, gender power, and intimate partner violence amongst young (18-30) women and men in urban informal settlements in South Africa: A cross-sectional study and structural equation model. PLoS One. 2018 Oct 1;13(10). \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMuluneh MD, Francis L, Agho K, Stulz V. A systematic review and meta-analysis of associated factors of gender-based violence against women in sub-Saharan Africa. Vol. 18, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. MDPI AG; 2021. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMthembu J, Mabaso M, Reis S, Zuma K, Zungu N. Prevalence and factors associated with intimate partner violence among the adolescent girls and young women in South Africa: findings the 2017 population based cross-sectional survey. BMC Public Health. 2021 Dec 1;21(1). \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCorrespondent [, Nambassa G, Qodir Z. Brawijaya Addressing Corruption and Government Challenges: The Case of Uganda\u0026rsquo;s Strategic Developments Policies. Vol. 11, Jurnal Transformasi Global. 2024. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAnnelie Aresk\u0026auml;r Kaddu. Corruption risks and risk assessment processes among civil society organizations A study of five organizations in Kampala, Uganda. 2024; \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCorruption Perceptions Index 2024 - Transparency.org [Internet]. [cited 2025 May 22]. Available from: https://www.transparency.org/en/cpi/2024/index/uga\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMakanga Ronald Kakumba. A few bad apples or a rotten orchard Ugandans cite brutality and corruption among police failings. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKubbe I, Baez-Camargo C, Scharbatke-Church C. Corruption and Social Norms: A New Arrow in the Quiver. 2025; Available from: https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-polisci-051120-\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePreventing Violence Against Women and Girls in Uganda Existing Frameworks and Commitments to Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls innUganda. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaxton J. Corruption in Uganda [Internet]. Vol. 2022, Ballard Brief. 2022. Available from: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/ballardbriefAvailableat:https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/ballardbrief/vol2022/iss2/2\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCamp AR. Scholarship @ GEORGETOWN LAW Scholarship @ GEORGETOWN LAW 2022 From Experiencing Abuse to Seeking Protection: Examining the From Experiencing Abuse to Seeking Protection: Examining the Shame of Intimate Partner Violence Shame of Intimate Partner Violence [Internet]. Available from: https://scholarship.law.georgetown.edu/facpub/2480https://ssrn.com/abstract=4323805\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeral G. Breaking theeCycle offGender-based Violence TRANSLATING EVIDENCE INTO ACTION FORRVICTIM/SURVIVOR-CENTRED GOVERNANCE. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSangeetha J, Mohan S, Hariharasudan A, Nawaz N. Strategic analysis of intimate partner violence (IPV) and cycle of violence in the autobiographical text \u0026ndash;When I Hit You. Heliyon. 2022 Jun;8(6):e09734. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDonella H. Meadows. Thinking in Systems. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJohnson A, Papi-Thornton D, Stauch J. Student Guide to Mapping a System \u0026middot; 1 Student Guide to Mapping a System Student Guide to Mapping a System \u0026middot; 2 Acknowledgements. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFoster-Fishman PG, Nowell B, Yang H. Putting the system back into systems change: A framework for understanding and changing organizational and community systems. Am J Community Psychol. 2007 Jun;39(3\u0026ndash;4):197\u0026ndash;215. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLipsky Michael. STREET-LEVEL BUREAUCRACY DILEMMAS OF THE INDIVIDUAL IN PUBLIC SERVICES MICHAEL LIPSKY. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRatnapalan S, Lang D. Health Care Organizations as Complex Adaptive Systems. Health Care Manager. 2020 Jan 1;39(1):18\u0026ndash;23. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLatkin C, Weeks MR, Glasman L, Galletly C, Albarracin D. A dynamic social systems model for considering structural factors in HIV prevention and detection. AIDS Behav. 2010 Dec;14(SUPPL. 2). \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-womens-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"bmwh","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Women's Health](http://bmcwomenshealth.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/bmwh/default.aspx","title":"BMC Women's Health","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Gender Based Violence, Adolescent Girls and Young Women, Informal Settlement","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7472683/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7472683/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003ch2\u003eIntroduction:\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eGender-based violence (GBV) remains a global challenge and is similarly known to have a high prevalence in countries such as Uganda, with adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in informal settlements at greater risk. Economic hardship, systemic inequality, and weak policy enforcement are known factors that exacerbate their vulnerability. This study explores the lived experiences of AGYW to identify the impact of these experiences and the challenges that have undermined efforts to combat this issue, particularly how institutional failures perpetuate violence and hinder access to protection and redress.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMethods\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis study qualitatively assessed the focus group discussions (FGDs) with AGYW in informal settlements with GBV experiences via MAX QDA software. The participants were recruited through community networks. The data were thematically analyzed via an inductive approach to identify the different barriers to justice. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained from appropriate institutions.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResults\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFindings from this study revealed the causes and forms of abuse, where this abuse occurs, and the outcomes of these abuses. Three themes were identified in relation to the study\u0026rsquo;s focus, as reported by participants during the FGDs. These include \u0026ldquo;economic and structural barriers in the justice system undermining access to justice for victims of GBV and IPV in informal settlements\u0026rdquo;, \u0026ldquo;institutional betrayal and abuse of power by justice system actors contributing to the exploitation of GBV survivors and mistrust\u0026rdquo;, and \u0026ldquo;the social and psychological toll of failed justice systems leading to isolation, coping strategies, and further vulnerability for GBV and IPV survivors.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eConclusions\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe discussion revealed that economic vulnerability, systemic corruption, and weak policy enforcement limit the AGYW access to justice. Institutional betrayal, patriarchal norms, and victim blaming perpetuate abuse and silence survivors. Justice seeking is transactional, favoring the powerful, whereas survivors face stigma, trauma, and exclusion. The study recommends anticorruption training, trauma-informed care, and policy reforms. It also calls for anonymous reporting mechanisms, and victim representation to support evidence collection. Comprehensive mental health services and inclusive, multisectoral approaches are essential to restore trust, ensure accountability, and protect the rights and dignity of GBV and IPV survivors in Uganda.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"A Qualitative Analysis of Gender-Based and Intimate Partner Violence Experiences Among Adolescent Girls and Women in Informal Settlements in Uganda in Navigating the Justice System","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-10-16 05:45:39","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7472683/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2025-10-16T20:31:38+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"85701233455223707836227721095669843715","date":"2025-10-06T16:02:37+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"321447748615097558063175905824375227044","date":"2025-10-03T17:42:57+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2025-10-03T06:39:16+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2025-10-01T07:42:46+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvited","content":"","date":"2025-09-12T20:34:15+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2025-09-11T17:26:13+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"BMC Women's Health","date":"2025-09-11T17:22:21+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-womens-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"bmwh","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Women's Health](http://bmcwomenshealth.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/bmwh/default.aspx","title":"BMC Women's Health","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"067bb4ef-8e78-4f0f-b8bd-a49181f4971b","owner":[],"postedDate":"October 16th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-10-16T05:45:39+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-10-16 05:45:39","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-7472683","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-7472683","identity":"rs-7472683","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}