An examination of domestic violence among Uganda Police officers and their families: a case of Nsambya Police Barracks

Abstract

This study investigates instances of domestic violence among Uganda Police Officers and their families, with a particular focus on Nsambya Police Barracks. The main objective is to investigate the nature, trends, and underlying drivers of domestic violence in this particular setting, as well as the difficulties encountered in preventing and resolving such violence. The study was guided by three specific objectives and that is to say, examining the nature and trend of domestic violence amongst Uganda Police Officers and their families in Nsambya Police barracks, examining the drivers of domestic violence cases among Police Officers and their families in Nsambya Police barracks and establishing the challenges encountered in preventing and responding to domestic violence among Police Officers and their families. The study used a mixed-methods approach, incorporating primary data from interviews and questionnaires. The study is grounded in the theoretical frameworks of the Theory of Change and Power and Control Theory, which offer valuable perspectives on the dynamics of domestic violence and its systemic consequences. Analysis of the data indicates that domestic violence at Nsambya Police Barracks takes on many manifestations, encompassing physical, emotional, and psychological assault. The study delineates noteworthy tendencies and patterns, underscoring the enduring nature of domestic violence among Police Officers and their families. Key drivers contributing to this phenomenon are work-related stress, unequal power distribution within hierarchies, and cultural perspectives on authority and gender roles. Addressing domestic abuse presents complex challenges that include institutional, procedural, and societal obstacles. The internal processes of the Police Force for the prevention and response to domestic violence are deemed insufficient, exacerbated by a dearth of training and resources, together with pervasive stigma and a hesitancy to report such occurrences. The study suggests different recommendations to different stakeholders like the Uganda Police leadership, government of Uganda, Civil Society Organisations and community leaders among the recommendations include: Police leadership to Strengthen Mental Health Support to its Officers, enhancing Awareness Programs among Police Officers, The government should allocate more resources towards establishing robust social support systems within Police barracks and communities and improving the work conditions/welfare of Uganda Police Officers among others. For civil society the recommendations include partnerships with the Police, victim support services, and public advocacy, and community leaders should provide Counseling and Mediation to Police Officers, Encouraging Open Communication and Family Support Networks to Police Officers among others.