The Equal Opportunities Commission equips refugee representatives to serve as ambassadors for equality and protection
The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) has trained Chairpersons and representatives of refugee communities to serve as paralegals, in a drive to bring justice services closer to the people who need them most.
The training was held under the theme “Strengthening Collaboration between the Equal Opportunities Commission, Refugee Leaders and Humanitarian Stakeholders.” It brought together community leaders, Commission officials and partners working in refugee protection.
What the Participants Learned
Participants were equipped with practical knowledge in several key areas:
- The mandate of the Equal Opportunities Commission
- Complaint handling and legal aid
- Refugee rights and protection
- Referral pathways for cases that require further support
- How to apply the Commission’s mandate within their own communities
The training aimed to give refugee leaders the tools to identify, guide and refer cases of discrimination and marginalisation, so that members of their communities are not left without recourse.
Certificates and Recognition
At the close of the training, participants received certificates from the Acting Under Secretary to the Commission, Ms. Naluyima Halima. The certificates recognise them as ambassadors of the Equal Opportunities Commission within their respective refugee communities.
The recognition is expected to strengthen their role in promoting access to justice, equality and protection, and to give them a formal link between their communities and the Commission.
A Step Toward Inclusive Justice
By building community-based legal support, the EOC aims to make its services accessible to everyone, regardless of status or location. Refugee leaders are often the first point of contact when community members face rights violations, and equipping them with legal knowledge helps ensure that complaints reach the right institutions in good time.
The initiative reflects the Commission’s broader commitment to collaboration with humanitarian stakeholders and to ensuring that equal opportunities are truly extended to all.
#EqualOpportunitiesForAll
