General paper – Human rights and their protection in Uganda

For purposes of general paper discussion is to guide students on answering following likely questions

• To what Extent have human rights been observed in Uganda
• To what extent have human rights been violated in Uganda

Note that question (i) and (ii) requires the same points. They are generally prompting you to explain how much you agree (or disagree) with the idea being posed. it is up to a student to provide evidences to support his choice  but the second half of the easy my  present  the opposite view since the examiner knows that the statement is not entirely true, and demonstrating that you understand this too is essential.

• ‘The promotion of children’s right is primarily responsible for the increased indiscipline in Uganda Schools’. Discuss.
• ‘Juvenile delinquency in Uganda today is primarily a result of parental negligence. Discuss.
• How has your community addressed the problem of child abuse?
• Discuss the causes of rampant child sacrifice in Uganda today. What should government do to stop these practices?

Remainder

• General paper questions calls for general knowledge and ability to use the English language to support general arguments rather than giving factual answers.
• Each point should be stated in full statement, described/all explained and illustrated with an example where necessary to earn full marks (3marks)
• Points should be rewritten in full paragraphs rather lists
• Answers to each question should be introduced by explaining the key terms.
• The essays are expected to be between 500 and 800 words
• Start now to write your sample essays

Definition of key terms

Human rights are natural entitlement to all human beings, regardless of race, sex, political affiliation, religious denomination, ethnicity, or any other status. They include theright to life, food, education, work, health and liberty.

Principles of human rights

• Inherent to all human beings regardless of nationality, race, sex, ethnicity, religion or any other status
• Universal and not granted by any state
• Moral principles or norms that protect human dignity
• Standards that govern how individuals live in society and their relationship with the state

Indiscipline means misconduct, bad behaviors, rebelliousness, disobedience

Child abuse refers to

• Intentional harm or mistreatmentof a child under age 18, which is a criminal offense.
• Physical, sexual, emotional, and/or psychological maltreatment or neglectby a parent or caregiver.
• Willful infliction of pain and sufferingon children.
• Causing injury, death, emotional harm, or risk of serious harmto a child.
• Happening to all types of kids and in all types of families, and is rarely a single event.

Juvenile delinquency refers to the involvement of minors (typically those under 18 years of age) in criminal or anti-social activities. These can range from minor offences, like truancy or vandalism to more

Child sacrifice is ritualistic kill of children in order to appease or please a deity, supernatural beings of scared social order. It is a form of human sacrifice. Child sacrifice rituals can involve the cutting or removal of body parts, faces or genitals. These brutal acts are frequently done whist the child is still alive since there is a belief that the screams of a victim attacked enhance the power of the body parts, as does the innocence of the victim

Children’s right s include

• The right to relax and play
• Freedom of expression
• Protection from violence
• An education
• Protection of identity

The rights and duties of Uganda citizen include

• The right to vote and hold public office
• Access government services
• Protection against discrimination
• Be nationalistic and loyal to Uganda
• Engage in gainful work for the good of the citizen, the family, and the common good
• Contribute to national development
• Promote responsible parenthood
• Foster national unity and live in harmony with others
• Promote democracy and the rule of law
• Know the provisions of the Constitution

Obligations of Uganda citizen

The Constitution of Uganda says that citizens have duties and responsibilities to:

• Be nationalistic and loyal to Uganda and to promote its wellbeing
• Engage in gainful work for the good of the citizen, the family and the common good;
• Contribute to national development;
• Contribute to the well-being of the community.
• Promote responsible parenthood.

Situation of human rights in Uganda

Human rights have been observed/not abused in in Uganda through the following ways

• Very Uganda has a right to life provided for in the constitution.
• Security agencies such police, prison and army protect people and their property.
• The government has provided good working conditions for all Ugandans.
• Government has provided education opportunities for Ugandan through Universal Primary Education (UPE), Universal Secondary Education (USE), UPOLET, sponsorship at tertiary institutions.
• Citizens have a right to marry and raise a family at 18 years and above.
• Ugandans have a right to own property and this ownership is respected by the government.
• The government has provided freedom of association for example through political pluralism and various civic organizations.
• There is freedom of speech and liberalization of access to information.
• Ugandans have a freedom of worship
• Marginalized people are protected through very many non-government organizations.
• The government provides free medical treatment to all Ugandan.
• Every Ugandan has access to fair trial and justice.

Human rights in Uganda have not been observed/abused in the following ways

• The righto life is often abuses through murder, abortions, high child and maternal mortality rates and child sacrifices
• Freedom of speech is infringed on through suppression press freedom, multiparty associations and so on.
• Suspects still experience torture to admit offences
• There is sexual abuse, rape and defilement
• Corruption causes denial justice and delayed trials judgment.
• Land grabbing denies citizens the right to property.
• Manipulation of election process denies the citizen the right to democracy
• Members of the oppositions are arrested and imprisoned without trial.
• A large portion of the population lack basic needs such as enough food, access to medical treatment, decent shelter and education facilities.
• Inflation eats up people’s savings and also leads to unaffordable prices for basic needs.
• In some industries workers are not provided with safe working conditions, while others are subjected long working hours with no weekend holidays. And have no freedom to form labors unions.
• There racial, religion, gender discrimination and nepotism at places of work and public places.
• Domestic violence is still

Children responsibilities in Uganda

• To treat others fairly
• To make most of their education and encourage others to develop their abilities
• Respect the adults and doing the best for them
• To listen to others opinions and take them seriously
• To respect the family and privacy of others.
• Not to hurt others and treat them unfairly
• Not to involve in unhealthy behaviors
• To respect other peoples races, religion and ethnicity
• Not to cheat or exploit others
• Respect others peoples name and nationality.
• Respect others opinions
• Participate in society and help others in need
• Report unfair treatment

Child abuses experienced in Uganda

• Maltreatment (including violent punishment)
• Many children from marginalized communities have no access to basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, education and health services
• Right to life has been abused through high child mortality rates, murder and child sacrifices.
• High disease prevalence rates in children below five years.
• Handicapped, and albinos faced discriminations in society, labor service, and schools
• Physical abuse: Deliberate physical harm of a child by parents or caregivers.
• Emotional or psychological violence includes restricting a child’s movements, denigration, ridicule, threats and intimidation, discrimination, rejection and other non-physical forms of hostile treatment.
• Rampant child labor and force labor
• Child trafficking
• Bullying (including cyber-bullying) is unwanted aggressive behavior by another child or group of children who are neither sibling nor in a romantic relationship with the victim. It involves repeated physical, psychological or social harm, and often takes place in schools and other settings where children gather, and online.

Causes of child sacrifice

• Belief in Witchcraft: Some individuals believe that sacrificing children can bring wealth, prosperity or solve person problems. Witch doctors often exploit these beliefs and trick their customers for financial gain
• Poverty: Desperation and extreme poverty can drive families to sacrifice their children, hoping for a better future or immediate financial relief.
• Vulnerability of children: Children are often targeted because they are more vulnerable and easier to abduct. They are also considered “purer” and thus more potent for rituals.
• Lack of legal Enforcement: Weak legal framework and poor enforcement of existing laws allows these practices to continue with minimal consequences.
• Cultural practice in some communities, traditional beliefs and practices still hold significant sway, making it difficult to eradicate such harmful customs.
• Declining morals
• Increasing number of witch craft due to freedom of beliefs in the country.
• Discouraging media from publishing contents that promote violence

How to minimize child sacrifice

Education and awareness: Educating communities about the dangers and illegality of child sacrifice is crucial. Awareness campaigns can help dispel myths and reduce the influence of witchcraft.

Strengthening legal frameworks: Implementing and enforcing strict laws against child sacrifice and related practices can deter perpetrators. This includes ensuring that those involved are prosecuted and punished appropriately.

Economic support. Providing economic opportunities and support to impoverished families can reduce the desperation that lead to such practices. These include creation of employment facilities, financial aid and access to relevant education.

Community engagement: Involving community leaders and members in the fight against child sacrifice can foster a collective effort to protect children. Traditional healers who oppose such practices can be powerful allies.

Support Services. Offering support services for at- risk children and families, such as counseling, shelter, and hotlines, can provide immediate help and long-term solutions.

Monitoring and reporting: Establishing systems for monitoring and reporting suspicious activities can help prevent incidents before they occur. Community vigilance is a key.

Causes of children indiscipline in schools

Home environment: lack of parental guidance, inconsistent discipline and domestic issues can impact a child’s behavior at school.

Peer influence: pressure to fit in or emulate friends can lead to disruptive behavior such getting involved in smoking and drugs.

Teaching methods: Inadequate teaching approaches or lack of engagement in the classroom, lack of classroom control and inadequate classroom activities can result in students acting out.

Emotion and Mental Health: Undiagnosed or untreated emotional and mental health issues can manifest as indiscipline

School environment: Poor relationships with teachers, lack of school rules enforcement, or unsupportive school culture can contribute to indiscipline.

Socioeconomic factors: Poverty, lack of resources or difficult living conditions can affect a student’s behavior and attitude towards school

Cause Juvenile delinquency

1. Parent negligence is indeed a significant factor contributing to juvenile delinquency in Uganda,. When parents or guardians fail to provide adequate supervision, guidance, and support, children are more likely to engage in delinquency behavior. This lack of parental involvement can lead to a feeling of neglect and abandonment, pushing children towards criminal activities as a means of seeking attention, acceptance and/or survival.

However, it is important to note that juvenile delinquency is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors such as the ones discussed below

2. Socioeconomic factors: Poverty, unemployment, and lack of resources can push juveniles towards delinquent behavior as the only means of survival or escape. Living in poverty is positively correlated with criminal activity across age groups. As one of the most common juvenile delinquency causes, living in poverty often exacerbates otherfactors involved in juvenile delinquency, increasing an individual teen’s likelihood of offending.
3. Peer Pressure: Influence from peers, especially in environment where delinquent behavior is normalized, can lead to juveniles engaging in criminal activities.
4. Education challenges: lack of access to quality education or a supportive school environment can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and delinquency
5. Exposure to violence: witnessing or experiencing violence through media, at home or in the community desensitizes juveniles and lead to aggressive or criminal behaviors.
6. Mental health issues: Undiagnosed or untreated mental health issues can manifest in delinquent behaviors as a cry for help or due to lack of proper coping mechanisms.
7. Drug abuse: Substance abuse including alcohol and drug use is prevalent among juvenile delinquents. Drug seeking behavior can potentially drive juveniles to steal to support their habit.

Effects of Juvenile Delinquency

The repercussions of juvenile delinquency extend beyond the individual offender and impact society at large:

• Impact on the Youth: Delinquent behavior can hinder a young person’s development, leading to academic failure, mental health issues, and difficulty finding employment. It often sets a precedent for continued criminal behavior into adulthood.
• Family Strain: Families of juvenile delinquents often face emotional and financial stress. The  strain of dealing with legal issues, school problems, and social stigma can be overwhelming.
• Community Safety: High rates of juvenile delinquency can lead to an increase in crime and a  general sense of insecurity within a community. This can affect local businesses and reduce the overall quality of life.
• Economic Costs: The economic costs associated with juvenile delinquency are substantial, encompassing expenses related to law enforcement, juvenile justice system involvement, victim compensation, and lost productivity. Addressing juvenile delinquency requires significant investment in prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation efforts.
• Social Consequences: Juvenile delinquency can perpetuate cycles of poverty and crime,  creating a societal burden that affects social cohesion and community wellbeing.
• Victimization:  Juvenile offenders are often victims themselves, trapped in cycles of violence and exploitation. Involvement in criminal activities increases their vulnerability to physical harm, sexual abuse, and exploitation by adult criminals.

Addressing Juvenile Delinquency: Solutions and Interventions

Effectively combating juvenile delinquency necessitates a holistic approach that encompasses prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation strategies:

• Parental Involvement: Strengthening family bonds and ensuring active parental involvement  can provide the necessary guidance and support for at-risk youth.
• Education and Vocational Training: Providing access to quality education and vocational  training can keep young people engaged and offer them alternative pathways to success.
• Community Programs: Initiatives like after-school programs, sports, arts, and mentorship can give juveniles constructive outlets and a sense of belonging.
• Mental Health Services: Increasing access to mental health services and addressing underlying psychological issues are critical components of juvenile delinquency prevention and intervention efforts. Early identification and treatment of mental health disorders can prevent escalation into criminal behavior.
• Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Effective enforcement of laws and juvenile justice reforms  focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment can guide young offenders back on track.
• Economic Support: Alleviating poverty and providing economic opportunities can reduce the  desperation that often leads to delinquent behavior.
• Peer Influence: Encouraging positive peer groups and role models can counteract negative
• Restorative Justice Practices: Emphasizing restorative justice principles encourages accountability, empathy, and reconciliation. Restorative justice approaches involve victims, offenders, and community members in the resolution of conflicts, focusing on repairing harm and restoring relationships.
• Policy Reforms: Advocating for policy reforms that prioritize prevention, diversion, and rehabilitation over punitive measures can lead to more effective juvenile justice systems. Reforms such as raising the age of juvenile court jurisdiction, promoting alternatives to incarceration, and reducing disparities in sentencing are essential for ensuring fair and equitable treatment of youth offenders.

Teachers’ obligations

Teachers have a myriad of responsibilities that go beyond just delivering lessons:

• Educating and Instructing: Crafting engaging and effective lesson plans to ensure students grasp the curriculum.
• Monitoring Progress: Assessing and tracking student progress through tests, homework, and  class activities to provide constructive feedback.
• Creating a Positive Learning Environment: Establishing a safe, respectful, and inclusive  classroom where every student feels valued.
• Guiding and Mentoring: Offering support and guidance to students on academic and personal issues, helping them navigate challenges.
• Classroom Management: Maintaining order and discipline to foster an environment  conducive to learning.
• Professional Development: Continuously improving their teaching skills and staying updated with the latest educational practices and theories.
• Parental Engagement: Communicating with parents about their child’s progress and addressing any concerns.

The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC

The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) was established under the 1995 Constitution of Uganda to protect and promote fundamental human rights and freedoms.

Functions of Uganda Human right Commission (UHRC)

Here below are its key functions:

• Investigating Violations: The UHRC investigates human rights violations either on its own   initiative or based on complaints from individuals or groups.
• Visiting Detention Facilities: It assesses and inspects jails, prisons, and other detention  facilities to ensure humane conditions for inmates.
• Research and Education: The commission conducts research, education, and information  programs to enhance respect for human rights.
• Recommendations to Parliament: It recommends measures to promote human rights,  including compensation for victims of human rights violations.
• Public Awareness: The UHRC creates and sustains awareness of constitutional provisions and encourages the public to defend the Constitution against abuse.
• Civic Education: It formulates and oversees programs to instill in citizens an appreciation of  their rights and responsibilities.
• Monitoring Government Compliance: The commission monitors the government’s  compliance with international human rights treaties and conventions.
• Reporting: It publishes periodic reports and submits annual reports to Parliament on the state of human rights in the country.

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Thanks

Dr. Bbosa Science