The protection of human rights defenders is a major concern in many countries, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is no exception. This is why the promulgation of the law relating to the protection and accountability of human rights defenders in the DRC on October 17, 2023 is a crucial step in guaranteeing the security of these essential actors.
Initiated by national deputy Jean Segihobe, elected from Rutshuru, this law aims to put in place protection mechanisms to ensure the safety of human rights defenders in the DRC. After fifteen years of advocacy, conferences and workshops, this promulgation is the result of hard work by Congolese activists.
For Annie Matundu Bambi, gender and development consultant and regional representative of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom in Africa (WILPF), this law is a major step forward in protecting the rights of defenders. It underlines the importance of the recourse mechanisms put in place by law to enable defenders to seek compensation in the event of a violation of their rights.
Unfortunately, the human rights situation in the DRC remains worrying. According to the UNJHRO, 410 cases of human rights violations and abuses were documented in May 2023, an increase of 16% compared to the previous month. These violations include extrajudicial killings, sexual violence and other forms of human rights abuses.
The promulgation of this law is therefore an important step, but it is essential that the Congolese State fully assumes its responsibilities in the implementation of this legislation. At the same time, civil society has a crucial role to play in monitoring the implementation of the law and in protecting the rights of defenders.
The DRC has taken other steps in recent years to strengthen human rights protection, including the adoption of a law on reparation for victims of conflict-related sexual violence and crimes against peace and security. ‘humanity. However, much remains to be done to fully guarantee the rights of human rights defenders in the DRC.
In conclusion, the promulgation of the law relating to the protection and accountability of human rights defenders in the DRC is a significant step forward in the protection of these essential actors. However, it is crucial that the Congolese state and civil society work together to ensure the effective implementation of this law and to ensure the safety of human rights defenders in the country.