In a groundbreaking legal move, the UK has sentenced a former international judge to over six years in prison for exploiting a young woman through forced labor, showing that no one, no matter their status, is above the law.
Lydia Mugambe, 50, who once served on the United Nations’ International Court of Justice and was a prominent figure in Uganda’s legal system, was convicted at Oxford Crown Court of multiple charges, including violations of the UK’s Modern Slavery Act.
While studying at the University of Oxford, Mugambe forced a young woman into unpaid domestic work, using threats and manipulation to strip her of basic freedoms. Prosecutors revealed that the woman was subjected to inhumane conditions and total control over her daily life.
The case is getting worldwide attention, not just because of who Mugambe is, but because it highlights a bigger issue: how those in power can abuse the system, even the ones supposed to be delivering justice.
Mugambe is currently serving a 6-year, 4-month sentence, a decision many are calling a big win in the fight against human trafficking and forced labor in the UK.
This case is kicking off important conversations about diplomatic immunity and privilege, holding powerful institutions accountable, and the rights of migrant domestic workers issues that are at the heart of today’s global justice movements.
Justice was served but the conversation is far from over!
