UN Judge Lydia Mugambe Sentenced for Modern Slavery in Oxford

Lydia Mugambe, a Ugandan High Court Judge and United Nations Criminal Tribunal Judge, was sentenced to six years and four months in prison by an Oxford court after being found guilty of modern slavery offenses. Mugambe exploited a young Ugandan woman by confiscating her documents and forcing her to work as an unpaid maid and childcare provider, while threatening her with deportation and intimidation. The victim was brought to the UK under the pretense of working for another official but was instead made to work at Mugambe's home, living in constant fear due to Mugambe's powerful status. The court noted Mugambe's lack of remorse and her attempts to blame the victim, despite her legal career in human rights. Mugambe was also ordered to pay compensation to the victim and received a restraining order. The case drew attention to the broader issue of diplomats abusing domestic workers and highlighted gaps in accountability for such offenses.