Title: Reparation for victims of sexual violence in conflict: a promising meeting between the First Lady of the DRC and the United Nations
Introduction :
As part of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, the First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, traveled to New York for an important meeting with the Office of the Undersecretary of United Nations in charge of conflict-related sexual violence. This meeting was an opportunity for the Directorate of the National Fund for Reparation of Victims of Sexual Violence in Conflicts and Crimes Against the Peace and Security of Humanity (FONAREV) to present its actions and establish collaboration bridges .
Presentation of FONAREV and its actions:
Under the leadership of Lucien Lundula Lolatui, FONAREV is committed to reparation for victims of sexual violence in the midst of conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The structure recently commemorated Genocost on August 2, highlighting the need to end impunity and support victims.
In addition, FONAREV carried out roaming in five provinces of the DRC, namely North and South Kivu, Kasai Central, Ituri and Kongo Central. This approach made it possible to establish direct contact with the victims, but also with other personalities involved in the fight against sexual violence, such as Doctor Denis Mukwege, Nobel Peace Prize winner.
The meeting with the Office of the Under-Secretary of the United Nations:
During the meeting with Pramilla Patten, United Nations Undersecretary in charge of conflict-related sexual violence, Lucien Lundula Lolatui presented the FONAREV roadmap and the actions already undertaken. He highlighted the importance of collaboration and exchange of best practices with other experts working on reparations in similar contexts, such as Iraq, Kosovo and Guinea.
Pramilla Patten reassured FONAREV of the support of her office and underlined the importance of identifying concrete collaboration bridges. Exchanges between FONAREV experts and those who have worked on repairs in other countries will make it possible to strengthen practices and improve the effectiveness of repair measures.
Conclusion :
The meeting between the First Lady of the DRC and the Office of the United Nations Under-Secretary in charge of conflict-related sexual violence represents a promising step forward in reparation for victims of sexual violence in conflict. FONAREV, through its actions on the ground and its desire for international collaboration, shows its determination to fight against impunity and to support victims.. This meeting opens up prospects for partnerships and fruitful exchanges, aimed at putting an end to these heinous crimes and promoting peace and security in the world.