The winners of the 2023 UN Prize, representing all continents, were recently announced. Among them is a remarkable woman, Julienne Lusenge, whose contribution to women’s human rights for more than 40 years has earned her this prestigious recognition.
As Chair of the Board of Directors of Solidarité Féminine pour la Paix et le Développement Intégral (SOFEPADI) and Director of the Fund for Congolese Women (FFC), Julienne Lusenge dedicates her life to the prevention and reduction of sexual and gender-based violence, as well as to strengthening women’s participation and leadership in peacebuilding, political engagement and civil society.
Her unwavering commitment to women victims of wartime violence has been recognized on numerous occasions, and she has received several awards for her work, including the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity, the US State Department’s International Women’s Courage Award, the Legion of Honor and the Ginetta Sagna Award from Amnesty International.
The appointment of Julienne Lusenge as Deputy Coordinator of the National Monitoring Mechanism for the Addis Ababa Agreement in the Democratic Republic of Congo further highlights her centrality in the fight for women’s rights and building a more equal future.
In a statement on her Twitter account, Julienne Lusenge expressed her gratitude and honor to have received this award, while stressing that there is still a lot to be done to support survivors of gender-based violence in the DRC.
These awards testify to the influence and impact of Julienne Lusenge’s career, which continues to inspire and motivate SOFEPADI staff to pursue their efforts on behalf of women victims of violence.
Julienne Lusenge is a true inspiration to women around the world and her determination to defend human rights and gender equality deserves to be saluted. Her work embodies the importance of the fight against violence against women and reminds us that every voice counts in the quest for a more just and equitable world.
As we celebrate these winners of the 2023 UN Prize, we must recognize and support the efforts of women like Julienne Lusenge, who fight every day to create a better future for all. The voice of women is powerful and invaluable, and it is essential to continue to support them in their fight for equality and justice