Self-help Guide

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a violation of human rights and a serious crime under Ethiopian law. However, for many survivors, the path to justice can feel overwhelming.

This guide outlines the practical steps a survivor should take immediately after an incident to protect their health and ensure they have the evidence needed for legal action.

Step 1: Safety and Health First (The “72-Hour Rule”)

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence or physical assault, your immediate physical safety is the priority. Get to a safe place away from the perpetrator.

The “72-Hour” Window is Critical.

For survivors of sexual violence, time is of the essence. You should try to visit a medical facility within 72 hours (3 days) of the incident.

• HIV Prevention: Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is most effective at preventing HIV transmission if taken within this window.
• Pregnancy Prevention: Emergency contraception is available and most effective during this time.
• Forensic Evidence: Evidence collection is strongest when done early.

Step 2: Preserving the Evidence

One of the biggest challenges in GBV cases in Ethiopian courts is the lack of evidence. While your instinct may be to wash away the trauma, preservation is key for justice.

Do NOT:

• Do not shower or bathe.
• Do not wash your clothes. If you must change, put the clothes you were wearing into a paper bag (not plastic, as plastic can damage DNA evidence).
• Do not brush your teeth or eat/drink if there was oral contact.
• Do not clean the crime scene. Leave the area as it is until police can investigate.

DO:

• Keep any text messages, voice notes, or threatening letters from the perpetrator.
• Take photos of any visible injuries immediately, if safe to do so.

Step 3: Where to Go: The One-Stop Centers

In the past, a survivor had to go to the police, then a hospital, then a prosecutor which be reliving their trauma at every stop. Today, the Government of Ethiopia and the Ministry of Health promote One-Stop Centers (OSCs).

What is a One-Stop Center?

These are special units located within hospitals where you can receive medical care, police investigation, legal advice, and psychosocial counseling all under one roof, free of charge.

Key One-Stop Centers in Addis Ababa:

• Gandhi Memorial Hospital (near the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Headquarters)
• Minelik II Hospital (Arada Sub-city)
• Tirunesh Beijing Hospital (Akaki Kality)
• Zewditu Memorial Hospital

Recommendation: If you are in Addis Ababa or a major regional city, go to a One-Stop Center first. They will call the police unit to you, minimizing your exposure.

Step 4: Reporting to Law Enforcement

If you cannot reach a One-Stop Center, you can report directly to the police.

• Ask for the “Child and Women Protection Unit” (CWPU): Most police stations in Ethiopia now have a dedicated desk or unit for women and children cases.
• Request a female officer: You have the right to request a female officer to take your statement. If one is not available, you can ask for a female support person to be present.
• The Police Report: Ensure your statement is recorded accurately.
• Police Letter: The police will give you a letter to take to a medical center for a check-up. Note: If you go to a One-Stop Center, this step is handled internally.

Step 5: Seeking Legal Aid

Once the immediate medical and police reports are filed, you may need a lawyer to follow up on the investigation and represent you in court.

You do not have to pay for a lawyer if you cannot afford one.

• University Legal Aid Centers: Our center (and other legal aid centers) provides free legal counseling and representation for GBV survivors.
• Civil Society Organizations: Organizations like the Ethiopian Women Lawyers Association (EWLA) specifically handle these cases.

Important Contacts & Hotlines

If you are unsure what to do, call these free or confidential numbers for guidance.

Disclaimer

This article provides general legal information. For specific legal advice regarding your case, please visit one of our legal aid offices in person.