Title: Victims of sexual violence finally find compensation thanks to Fonarev
Introduction :
In the heart of the central Kongo province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the town of Kimpese recently welcomed a delegation from Fonarev (National Fund for Reparation of Victims of Sexual Violence Related to Conflicts and Other Crimes against the Peace and Security of the humanity). This visit marks a historic turning point for victims of sexual violence, particularly those affiliated with the political-religious movement Bundu dia Kongo, who were traumatized during the bloody events that occurred between 2007 and 2009.
Fonarev: an institution of reparation and transitional justice
Under the direction of Lucien Lundula Lolatui, Fonarev plays a key role in repairing the errors and violence of the past. Created in 2023 under Decree 23/20, this fund is responsible for providing support to victims of abuse and violence by providing them with free access to justice, material, physical, psychological and socio-economic reparation, as well as support for community empowerment and recovery. It aims to meet the needs of victims and their beneficiaries while contributing to knowledge of the truth about the crimes committed.
Listening and repair: the essential stages of the process
The Fonarev delegation organized meetings with victims in the provinces of Kasai Central, Ituri, North and South Kivu, as well as in central Kongo. These exchanges allowed the institution to collect the expectations and needs of victims in order to implement comprehensive reparations. The Fonarev founder stressed the importance of holistic transitional justice, which includes free access to justice, the search for truth and reparation for victims.
Towards the first collective reparations
Following these meetings and the testimonies collected, Fonarev plans to organize a workshop in the coming weeks in collaboration with the authorities, victims’ associations and commissioners of the Provincial Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission. The objective is to define concerted modalities for the first collective reparations, which will restore and empower victims.
Conclusion :
Fonarev is changing the situation by offering a glimmer of hope to victims of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Thanks to its action, victims will finally be able to benefit from complete reparation, both materially and psychologically. This fund represents an important step towards transitional justice and contributes to the reconstruction of a more just and equitable society.