Title: International news: the First Lady of the DRC meets Pramila Patten, United Nations under-secretary for conflict-related sexual violence
Introduction :
On the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, the First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, met Pramila Patten, United Nations undersecretary in charge of sexual violence linked to Conflicts. This meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration with the National Fund for the Reparation of Victims of Sexual Violence in Conflicts and Crimes Against the Peace and Security of Humanity (FONAREV), as well as to share good practices in the fight against sexual violence. A look back at this important meeting for the DRC.
A strong commitment against sexual violence:
The DRC has been facing extreme sexual violence for many years, used as a weapon of war. Faced with this, FONAREV was created to support and accompany the victims of this violence. During the meeting with Pramila Patten, the General Director of FONAREV, Lucien Lundula Lolatui, was able to present the organization’s roadmap as well as the actions already undertaken. Among these, we can cite the commemoration of Genocost on August 2, 2023, as well as a recent itinerant in five provinces of the DRC, allowing us to meet directly with victims and actors involved in the fight against sexual violence, in particular the Dr Denis Mukwege, Nobel Peace Prize winner.
Strengthened collaboration with the United Nations:
During the meeting, Pramila Patten expressed her support for FONAREV and proposed closer collaboration with the United Nations. With this in mind, collaboration bridges will be identified and FONAREV experts will interact with those who worked on reparations in Iraq, Kosovo and Guinea in order to share good practices. This collaboration will make it possible to strengthen actions to support victims and to fight more effectively against sexual violence linked to conflicts in the DRC.
Conclusion :
The meeting between the First Lady of the DRC, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, and Pramila Patten, United Nations Under-Secretary for Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, marks an important step in the fight against sexual violence in the DRC. By strengthening collaboration with FONAREV and sharing good practices, this meeting paves the way for more effective action to support victims and put an end to this unacceptable violence. The DRC is resolutely committed to this fight and counts on the support of the international community to advance this fundamental cause.