A networking workshop organized by Journalist for Human Rights (JDH) and its media partners presented the draft law on the exemption of court fees for victims of gender-based violence, on May 26 in Gombe, commune from Kinshasa. The participants, made up of men and women of rights, civil society organizations and journalists, renewed their commitment to advancing the process of the law on the exemption of legal costs as well as the Canada-World project: The voice of women and girls.
After its approval in the National Assembly on May 18, the bill brought by CSOs for the defense, promotion and protection of the rights of women and girls in the DRC, was sent to the Senate for a second reading before its promulgation by The head of state. Stakeholders adopted a strategic plan to advance this law through the second chamber of parliament.
Victims of sexual violence in the DRC will be able to benefit from this exemption, once the law is enacted, thus allowing them to fully enjoy their rights. Stakeholders therefore intend to take action very soon to move things forward.
In short, this bill on the exemption of legal fees for victims of sexual violence in the DRC is a major step forward for the promotion and protection of the rights of women and girls in the country.