Standard Operating Procedures for Handling and Investigating Cases of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV)

Sets out the standard operating procedures guiding the ZGC's constitutional mandate (section 245) and the ZGC Act [Chapter 10:31] to investigate gender-rights violations and handle SGBV complaints. Covers intake, investigation, witness protection, confidentiality, referral and case closure, grounded in a survivor-centred, 'do no further harm' approach.

·      SGBV is a systemic barrier to the realisation of gender equality.

·      The ZGC holds a wide constitutional mandate to investigate gender-rights violations.

·      Effective handling of cases requires a survivor-centred approach.

·      Vulnerable complainants and witnesses require tailored measures.

·      Confidentiality and witness protection are central to case handling.

·      Apply a survivor-centred, 'do no further harm' approach at every stage.

·      Use structured intake, investigation, referral and case-closure procedures.

·      Provide witness protection and appoint intermediaries where needed.

·      Safeguard confidentiality and secure custody of sensitive documents.

·      Deliver ongoing staff training and maintain a service-provider referral directory.