Fatshimetry, November 4, 2024 (FAT).- A critically important initiative was launched this Monday in the city of Fatshimetry, aimed at identifying victims of sexual violence in several provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This operation, carried out at the headquarters of a structure dedicated to the care of victims, marks a crucial step in the recognition and reparation of the suffering endured by many people.
The first phase of this operation targets in particular victims of collective and individual violence, as well as those residing in certain displaced persons camps in the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, Kasai-Central, and soon Kongo Central. This approach aims to precisely identify the beneficiaries of judicial decisions and to prepare the individual and collective reparations that will be granted to them.
Over the decades, the Democratic Republic of Congo has been marked by devastating armed conflicts, resulting in serious human rights violations, including sexual violence. Victims, often marginalized and deprived of justice, face considerable obstacles in accessing reparation and recognition of their suffering.
It is in the face of this sad observation that the distinguished First Lady Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi worked for the creation of the National Fund for Sexual Reparation Related to Conflicts and Victims Against the Peace and Security of Humanity (FONAREV). Adopted on December 26, 2022, the law establishing FONAREV marks a major step forward in the protection and reparation of victims of violence in the DRC.
FONAREV, officially established on August 2, 2023, is part of a process of justice and reparation for all victims of conflict-related sexual violence, dating back to 1993, in accordance with current legislation. Its objective is to guarantee equitable access to justice and provide adequate support to the most vulnerable victims.
This initiative represents an important step towards recognising the suffering endured by many people in the DRC, and demonstrates the government’s commitment to combating impunity and promoting access to justice for all. It is an essential step towards reconciliation and rebuilding a country scarred by years of conflict and violence.