Fatshimetrie, August 19, 2024 – Commitment to the rights of people living with disabilities is taking on a new dimension in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, during a workshop held in Kinshasa, the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) positioned itself as a valuable ally to support these individuals in the face of the violations of which they may be victims.
In her speech, Me. Véronique Ngongo Furah, coordinator of the permanent subcommittee on the rights of people living with disabilities and other vulnerable groups of the CNDH, stressed the fundamental importance of the right to justice for all. She recalled that the CNDH is ready to investigate cases of violations and provide concrete support to victims, so that they can access justice under fair conditions.
An essential point was highlighted: in the Democratic Republic of Congo, there is no distinction before the law. Whether you are an able-bodied person or someone with a disability, everyone has the inalienable right to assert their rights and to refer the matter to the competent judicial authorities in the event of harm suffered. This approach is in line with the protection of human rights as guaranteed by the Congolese Constitution and Penal Code.
Furthermore, Me. Véronique Ngongo also mentioned a significant step forward in digital justice. Indeed, the new Digital Code broadens the scope of justice to the virtual sphere, recognizing that offenses committed on social networks and digital platforms must be punished in accordance with the laws in force.
This initiative demonstrates a clear desire to strengthen the protection of the rights of people living with disabilities and vulnerable groups, by creating a climate favorable to access to justice for all. This is an important step towards a more inclusive society that respects diversity, where everyone can assert their rights and obtain compensation in the event of a violation.