The importance of educating and sensitizing the military on human rights issues cannot be overstated. The NGO Human Right, under the leadership of its President Tighana Buki, has undertaken this arduous task, handling 500 cases of military personnel detained for human rights violations over the past three years. This commendable initiative has resulted in approximately one hundred of these military personnel regaining their freedom, thus testifying to the concrete impact of the sensitization and education efforts.
Tighana Buki emphasizes the importance of instilling in the military the respect for ethics, the professional code of conduct and the fundamental principles of human rights. This awareness extends to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and international humanitarian law, essential elements to ensure respect for civilian populations in times of war as well as in times of peace.
It is crucial that the military understand that without the support and trust of the population, their mission becomes difficult, if not impossible. This is why the NGO Human Right is working to organize seminars and training sessions for the military, encouraging them to adopt practices that respect human rights and international humanitarian law.
The collaboration between Human Right and the Service d’éducation civique, patriotique et actions sociales de l’armée (SECAS) shows the importance of these joint efforts to strengthen respect for human rights within the armed forces. By reaching out to the military and raising their awareness of these crucial issues, it is possible to create a culture of responsibility and respect within the Congolese army.
The positive impact of such initiatives is measured not only by the release of military detainees, but also by the construction of an army that is more respectful of human rights and civilian populations. This is an ongoing process that requires sustained commitment and a willingness to change, but whose benefits are inestimable for society as a whole.
Ultimately, educating and raising awareness of human rights among the military is not only a moral obligation, but also an imperative to ensure the security and stability of the country. Through concrete and targeted actions, it is possible to transform military practices and promote mutual respect between the armed forces and the civilians they are supposed to protect.