The session brought together nearly 40 participants from key justice sector institutions, including the Office of the Attorney General, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, and civil society organisations. The event provided an opportunity to exchange experiences and strengthen institutional capacities in responding to gender-based violence. 

The closing session was led by expert Kim Sealy and included the participation of the Embassy of Germany in Trinidad and Tobago, represented by the Head of Culture, Jessica Cohoe, who highlighted the importance of international cooperation in strengthening justice systems across the region. 

A diploma recognizes participants who successfully completed the course their commitment to enhancing institutional responses to gender-based violence. 

Strengthening the justice system’s response 

The course aimed to strengthen capacities in the investigation, prosecution, and sanctioning of gender-based violence in the Caribbean, with a strong focus on addressing victims’ needs throughout their interaction with the justice system. 

Over nine weeks, the programme combined virtual and in-person sessions, enabling participants to review legal frameworks, analyse operational challenges, and identify best practices from a gender perspective. 

Key topics addressed in the programme included: 

• Intake of complaints and investigation of gender-based violence cases 

• Risk assessment and implementation of protection measures 

• The use of alternative resolutions methods and summary proceedings 

• The development of a case theory 

• Gender-sensitive litigation in criminal proceedings 

These topics were delivered through practical, hands-on methodology, incorporating case analysis, participatory exercises, and digital tools to support real-world applications.