### Raising child protection standards: a call for action in the Democratic Republic of Congo
On March 31, 2023, in the heart of Kinshasa, the International Bureau of Children’s Rights (IBCR) launched two operating methods intended to reform practices relating to the protection of the rights of children in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This event, which takes place in a social context often marked by challenges in terms of children’s rights, deserves special attention. Indeed, the IBCR initiative, funded by Global Affairs Canada, goes beyond a simple update of institutional practices; It symbolizes the hope of a lasting change in a society where children are too often victims of negligence, abuse, and exploitation.
#### The importance of operating modes
The operating modes (MO) presented during this ceremony represent strategic tools. Their main role is to provide a normative and operational framework to labor inspectors and players in the deprivation of freedom. The DRC, with its unique challenges in terms of children’s rights, requires approaches that take into account local circumstances while integrating international standards.
The displayed objective of these MO – “Tonga MPO Na Bolamu Ya Mwana” – which results in “strengthening the child protection system”, revolves around three main axes: strengthening the skills of protection actors, improving practices in the neglected sectors, and better coordination between the various stakeholders involved. It is crucial to understand that these efforts are not only intended to adapt existing practices, but also to redefine the way in which children’s rights are perceived and applied.
#### A Sociocultural context loaded
To fully understand the potential impact of these Mo, it is essential to assess the socio -cultural context in which they will be applied. The DRC, with its deep cultural inheritances and its socio-political tensions, presents a fertile ground for discriminatory practices and violations of the fundamental rights of children. The statistics provided by various NGOs show that up to 3 million children live in extreme precarious conditions, with an alarming prevalence of children’s work and physical or psychological abuses.
By integrating the realities on the ground in the MO, the IBCR ensures that these tools are not just theoretical, but that they meet the real needs of children and actors involved in their protection. Taking into account local specificities is essential to guarantee the membership of the professionals concerned, both at the institutional and community level.
#### A call for collective engagement
In his speech, Mahamadi Oubda, representative-Pays of the IBCR, did not hesitate to emphasize that the success of this initiative will depend on the commitment of all actors. This point raises a crucial question: how to effectively mobilize actors of civil society, as well as families and local communities, so that they can play an active role in the implementation of these new standards?
The children themselves must be integrated into this dynamic. The inclusion of votes of young people in decision -making processes is often overlooked. However, participatory initiatives can generate deep transformations, allowing children to declare themselves as key players in their own protection. Awareness and education programs can also strengthen their understanding of their rights, thus establishing an environment where child protection is not only the responsibility of adults, but a collective imperative.
#### A shared responsibility
The Congolese government, represented by Lukombe Nsambi Michel, also expressed undeniable support for this initiative. This opens a way for a closer collaboration between government institutions and non -governmental organizations. But the road remains strewn with pitfalls. Political speeches must result in concrete actions on the ground. Reinforced measures must be taken to ensure that the legal decisions relating to children are effectively implemented in compliance with rather than punitive educational standards.
On the other hand, the formation of relay agents to disseminate the MO across the country also raises the question of the sustainability of this initiative. Will it be a punctual solution or a long-term transformation program? The answer perhaps lies in the implementation of a continuous evaluation and support system, to measure the impact of MO and adjust the strategies according to the results obtained.
#### Conclusion: A new era for children’s rights in the DRC
The IBCR initiative represents a glimmer of hope in a sector often on the sidelines of political and societal concerns. The new operating modes must be seen as a first step towards a systemic change, an approach that could inspire other countries in prey to similar challenges.
It is imperative that this momentum is supported by concrete commitments, both at the governmental and community level. Child protection in the DRC can no longer wait; It requires collective mobilization, where each actor has its share to play. In the end, the rights of each child should not only be proclaimed, but experienced and lived on a daily basis, because each child deserves to grow in a safe, respectful and fulfilling environment