A request for the following information was sent to the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare: What is the ministry’s mandate and how does it fit into Vision 2030? Has the ministry put any measures in place to specifically counter and/or assist victims of gender-based violence during the COVID-19 pandemic? How long does the ministry take to respond to gender-based violence incidents and is there a safe space for victims while procedures are underway? What is the ministry’s strategy to address stigmatisation and discrimination against LGBTQ people? y y y y n = 20 Yes 1. Is there an official, who is designated to take and respond to information requests? X 2. Did the organisation reply within 21 days? X 3. Did the organisation respond to the request for information? X 4. Does the organisation publish their procedures for handling information requests? 5. Did the organisation provide all of the requested information? X 6. Did the organisation provide written reasons for the refusal of information? X 7. Did the organisation disclose information about its operations, budgets, structure, etc. X 8. Did the authority provide information without questioning the aims and motivations of the applicant? X 9. Did the organisation acknowledge the request for information within 7 days? No Partial Additional information Public Relations Officer X A formal request is required. X 10. Was the information received clear and understandable? X Total score: 16/20 6. MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES CATEGORY 1: WEBSITE www.mhss.gov.na The website contains up-to-date information, however the platform is technical and difficult to navigate. The organisation’s social media pages include Facebook and Instagram. n = 20 Yes Does the website contain the following: 1. Up-to-date information? X 2. A description of the organisation’s powers and structure, as well as its functions and responsibilities? X 3. A list of laws, acts, etc, issued within the scope of its powers? X RETURN TO CONTENTS PAGE 139 No Partial Additional information NAMIBIA CATEGORY 2: REQUEST FOR INFORMATION