Ep 4. Lesotho: Confronting Sexual Violence

In season 4 episode 4 of Inside the World's Toughest Prisons, titled "Lesotho: Confronting Sexual Violence," journalist Raphael Rowe visits the Maseru Central Correctional Institution in Lesotho. He meets with female inmates who have been convicted of committing sexual offenses and learns about the rampant sexual violence within the prison walls.

Rowe speaks with one inmate who was convicted of raping a minor. She explains how poverty and lack of education contributed to her actions and expresses remorse for what she did. However, she also reveals how she has been victimized and sexually assaulted by other inmates since arriving at the prison.

Rowe also meets with a group of male inmates who have been convicted of sexually assaulting women. They discuss their crimes and the cultural attitudes that contribute to the prevalence of sexual violence in Lesotho. They express remorse and a desire to change, but also acknowledge the difficulty of breaking free from societal norms.

Throughout the episode, Rowe examines the efforts being made to address sexual violence within the prison and in society at large. He speaks with prison staff and outside experts who are working to provide counseling and support to survivors of sexual violence and to educate the public about the need to address this issue.

Overall, "Lesotho: Confronting Sexual Violence" sheds light on a serious problem that affects not just this prison but communities worldwide. Through the stories of these inmates and the professionals working to help them, the episode offers a thought-provoking look at the complex issues surrounding sexual violence and the difficult work of prevention and rehabilitation.