The Austria Development Cooperation (ADC) is honoured to partner with the Government of Uganda through the Justice, Law, and Order Sub-programme (JLOS) in promoting justice, human rights, and inclusive governance for all Ugandans.
Over the past years, our partnership has been guided by a shared belief — that justice and development are inseparable. A fair society is one where citizens, regardless of gender, age, or circumstances, can access justice, claim their rights, and live with dignity. Through the JLOS-led justice reform programme, Uganda has made significant progress towards realising this vision.
This publication highlights inspiring stories of progress that have emerged from our collaboration with JLOS institutions. From the transformation of the Uganda Prisons Service and community policing reforms to establishing One-Stop Centres for survivors of gender-based violence, the rollout of the Justice for Children (J4C) Programme, and the digitalisation of commercial justice and immigration systems, these initiatives represent significant milestones in Uganda’s journey towards a more responsive and rights-based justice system.
At the heart of these achievements is the Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA), which continues to guide Uganda’s justice reform agenda. By prioritising the citizens, especially the most vulnerable, in justice service delivery, JLOS has shown that efficiency and empathy can coexist in governance. The stories shared in this publication serve as a reminder that justice is not an abstract concept; it is experienced in the lives of those who can now access fair hearings, reclaim property, obtain identity documents, or live free from violence and discrimination.
The Austrian Development Cooperation and the Embassy in Uganda remain firmly committed to supporting Uganda in strengthening its justice institutions, advancing the rule of law, and integrating human rights across all areas of public service. These success stories stand as evidence of what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and a shared belief in equality and dignity for all.
We commend the Government of Uganda and all JLOS institutions for their ongoing leadership, and we celebrate the women and men across the country — in courts, prisons, police stations, and communities — who ensure justice every day.
As Uganda’s justice sector advances in its transformation, may these stories inspire renewed dedication to fairness, inclusion, and human rights as the pillars of sustainable development.
Dr. Katja Kerschbaumer
Head of Office
Austria Development Cooperation and Embassy in Uganda