In 2015, the human rights situation in Zimbabwe remained fragile. Although conditions have improved since 2008, violations still occur. Harassment and discrimination continue to make up more than 60% of reported incidents. There have been increasing reports of discrimination in the implementation of government-controlled food aid programmes. There is periodic use of violence by the state, especially during election periods. However, due to some improvement in citizens' civil liberties, Freedom House recently improved Zimbabwe's status from "Not Free" to "Partly Free" in its Freedom in the World report. Ahead of the 2018 elections, it is essential that reforms are made to the electoral system, including ensuring the full independence of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.

In 2015, the UK's human rights work in Zimbabwe focused on monitoring and reducing the overall number of recorded human rights violations, encouraging effective implementation and compliance with the 2013 constitution, improving property rights, and further developing democratic space. UK funding supported improved access to justice for vulnerable people, helped provide child protection services and contributed to a successful constitutional court challenge to the legality of child marriage. We spoke out through statements and in private meetings with the government of Zimbabwe about the importance of state institutions complying with the 2013 constitution, particularly with regard to evictions and demolitions.

Progress in 2015 was patchy and a number of issues remain. Citizens' ability to enjoy their rights continues to be defined by their political affiliation. Intra- and inter-party violence continues at a low level, with worrying peaks around by- elections. Compliance with court decisions by police is inconsistent, and there have been repeated violations of constitutional protections in regard to eviction and demolition of properties, affecting both black and white communities. Remaining issues of concern include slow progress to revise repressive legislation in line with the 2013 constitution, restrictions on the freedom of the media, and preferential treatment of ruling party supporters in the distribution of food aid. The government of Zimbabwe has still not properly investigated the disappearance of political activist Itai Dzamara. LGB&T rights are not protected under the Constitution. The death penalty remains on the statute book, although there is a de facto moratorium in place.

In 2016 the UK government will continue to encourage timely revision of repressive Zimbabwean legislation to align it with the 2013 constitution; support the efforts of local civil society organisations to have constitutional provisions enforced; monitor trends in frequency and severity of rights violations, including political violence, intimidation and politicised access to humanitarian aid; and support access to justice programmes. We will call on the government of Zimbabwe to respect the provisions of the Constitution, particularly regarding eviction and demolition of property, and support those who seek to have these protections enforced. The UK government urges the government of Zimbabwe to follow the decisions of its courts in disputed land seizure cases. We will continue to support efforts to build a more democratic, stable and prosperous Zimbabwe.

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