International meetings and exchanges are essential opportunities for state leaders and officials to discuss global issues and find collaborative solutions.
During the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, held in New York, the First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, was able to meet the Under-Secretary of the United Nations responsible for conflict-related sexual violence, Pramila Patten.
This meeting was an opportunity for the First Lady and the Management of the National Fund for Reparation of Victims of Sexual Violence in Conflicts and Crimes against Peace and the Security of Humanity (FONAREV) to discuss with Ms. Patten the challenges and actions undertaken in the fight against sexual violence in the DRC.
Pramila Patten is committed to supporting FONAREV in its actions of reparation and support for victims. She also stressed the importance of sharing good practices with other experts working on similar issues in Iraq, Kosovo and Guinea. This collaboration will strengthen efforts to combat sexual violence and put in place effective reparation solutions.
During this meeting, the General Director of FONAREV, Lucien Lundula Lolatui, presented the actions already undertaken by the organization. Among these, we can cite the commemoration of Genocost on August 2, 2023, as well as a recent roaming in five provinces of the DRC, where FONAREV was able to enter into direct contact with the victims and the actors engaged in the fight against sexual violence.
This meeting with Pramila Patten marks an important step in the efforts made by the DRC to fight against sexual violence in times of conflict. It also paves the way for closer international collaboration in this crucial area.
The presence of the First Lady of the DRC in New York and the discussions held with representatives of the United Nations demonstrate the commitment of the Congolese government to fight against sexual violence and to support victims. These discussions will undoubtedly make it possible to strengthen the actions undertaken and find more effective solutions to put an end to these atrocities.
In conclusion, the meeting between the First Lady of the DRC, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, FONAREV and Pramila Patten, Under-Secretary of the United Nations, marks a significant step forward in the fight against sexual violence in the DRC. This strengthened international collaboration will make it possible to put in place concrete measures of reparation and support for victims, thus contributing to the pacification of the country and the protection of human rights.