This year, the Democratic Republic of Congo was the scene of an event of capital importance in the field of human rights. Indeed, the Ministry of Human Rights, in collaboration with the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO), organized a ceremony to present the United Nations Human Rights Prize awarded to Ms. Julienne Lusenge. The latter, a human rights defender and coordinator of the NGO Solidarité Féminine pour la Paix et le Développement Intégral (SOFEPADI) as well as the Congolese Women’s Fund (FFC), was rewarded for her commitment and tireless action to respect women’s rights in the DRC for nearly four decades.
The presentation of this prize, awarded in December 2023 in New York, constitutes international recognition of the remarkable work accomplished by Julienne Lusenge in favor of the protection and promotion of human rights, particularly those of women. Her tireless fight for equality, justice and dignity for Congolese women has been rightly recognized by the United Nations.
In his speech at the ceremony, the Director of the UNJHRO, Patrice Vahard, highlighted the importance and symbolism of this award given to Ms. Julienne Lusenge. He recalled that the United Nations Human Rights Prize is an honorary distinction awarded to individuals and organizations for their exceptional achievements in the field of human rights. Established in 1968 on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, this Prize demonstrates the international community’s support for human rights defenders around the world.
The Minister of Human Rights, Chantal Chambu Mwavita, praised Julienne Lusenge’s exemplary career and her unwavering commitment to human rights in the DRC. She stressed the importance of this ceremony as an expression of the Congolese government’s commitment to the promotion and defense of human rights.
In a speech filled with gratitude and emotion, Ms. Julienne Lusenge dedicated this award to the courageous women of the DRC who fight daily for their rights and dignity. She stressed that this recognition was not only hers, but that of all women and human rights defenders in the DRC and elsewhere. Her vibrant message of solidarity and determination recalled the importance of the collective struggle for equality, justice and dignity.
In conclusion, the presentation of the United Nations Human Rights Prize to Ms. Julienne Lusenge was a highlight in the recognition of the remarkable work accomplished by this human rights defender in the DRC. This ceremony highlighted not only the courage and determination of Madame Lusenge, but also the need for international solidarity to support and protect all those who work for a fairer and more equitable world.