Fatshimetrie, October 8, 2024 – The Democratic Republic of Congo has once again launched an urgent call for the creation of an international criminal tribunal dedicated to judging human rights violations that have been plaguing the country since 1996. This approach was relayed by the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) during the 57th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Véronique Ngongo Furah, National Commissioner, advocated for the establishment of this international tribunal by stressing the importance of establishing responsibilities for human rights violations perpetrated in the DRC. She also urged the international community to support this crucial initiative for justice and reparation for victims.
At the same time, the CNDH called on the Congolese government to intensify its efforts to restore peace and security, as well as state authority in conflict-affected regions, particularly in North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri and Mai-Ndombe. It is imperative to take concrete measures to ensure adequate care for displaced populations and provide continuing education to children affected by conflict.
The CNDH participant in the Human Rights Council session welcomed the inclusion of the report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in the DRC on the agenda. She also welcomed the progress made by the government in the fight against impunity for serious human rights violations.
By establishing military courts and organizing mobile court hearings, the Congolese government seeks to guarantee transitional justice and meet the expectations of victims of sexual violence and crimes against the peace and security of humanity. The creation of the National Fund for Reparations for Victims demonstrates a significant step forward in this process of justice and reparation.
This approach aims to provide effective reparation to the many victims who have suffered from the atrocities committed in the DRC and who have been waiting too long for justice to be done. The National Human Rights Commission calls for increased international solidarity to successfully complete this quest for truth and reparation in the interests of justice and dignity for all Congolese citizens.
Ultimately, the establishment of an international criminal tribunal on the Congo represents an essential step towards the recognition of the fundamental rights of individuals and the fight against impunity that has prevailed for too long. It is a crucial commitment for the future of the Democratic Republic of Congo and for the promotion of the universal values of justice and respect for human rights.