United Nations judge and Ugandan High Court Justice Lydia Mugambe has been found guilty of multiple offenses related to modern slavery, including forcing a young woman to work as a domestic servant without pay.
Mugambe, 49, was convicted at Oxford Crown Court of conspiring to facilitate the commission of a breach of UK immigration law, facilitating travel with a view to exploitation, forcing someone to work, and conspiracy to intimidate a witness.
She is scheduled for sentencing on May 2.
In the UK, the maximum punishment for offenses related to modern slavery under the Modern Slavery Act 2015 is life imprisonment for offenses under sections 1 (slavery, servitude, and forced or compulsory labor) and 2 (human trafficking).
Exploitation and Legal Violations
Prosecutors stated that Mugambe, who was pursuing a law PhD at the University of Oxford, “took advantage of her status” to control the victim’s employment and living conditions. The court heard that she conspired with Ugandan deputy high commissioner John Leonard Mugerwa to facilitate the young woman’s travel to the UK under false pretenses.
Caroline Haughey KC, prosecuting, argued that Mugambe’s intent was to “obtain someone to make her life easier at the least possible cost.” Jurors heard that the young woman was deceived into believing she would secure legitimate employment but was instead forced to provide domestic labor and childcare.
Denial of Wrongdoing and Diplomatic Immunity Claims
During her arrest under the Modern Slavery Act, Mugambe expressed disbelief and insisted on her diplomatic immunity, telling officers: “I am a judge in my country, I even have immunity. I am not a criminal.”
However, Thames Valley Police confirmed that the United Nations Secretary-General’s office waived any diplomatic protections Mugambe might have had as a UN judge.
Witness Intimidation and Reaction to Conviction
The trial also revealed that Mugambe attempted to coerce the victim into withdrawing her testimony to avoid prosecution. As the guilty verdicts were read, gasps were heard in the public gallery, and the defendant appeared visibly distressed.
Thames Valley Police’s Commander for Oxfordshire, Chief Superintendent Ben Clark, stated:
“Mugambe’s attempt to evade justice through diplomatic immunity failed. This case sends a strong message that modern slavery and human trafficking will not be tolerated, regardless of the perpetrator’s status.”
UN Appointment and Implications
Mugambe was appointed to the UN’s judicial roster in May 2023, just months after UK authorities launched their investigation into her conduct.
The case has sparked international concern over vetting processes for high-ranking legal professionals within global institutions.
