In Bunia, the capital of Ituri province in the northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a local women's organization has commended efforts to improve access to justice for survivors of conflict-related violence. The organization, Solidarité des Femmes pour la Paix et le Développement Intégral (SOFEPADI), expressed satisfaction during a visit by French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, to their offices on Sunday, October 4, 2026.
According to Sandrine Lusamba, representative of SOFEPADI, access to justice and reparations remains a significant challenge for survivors of conflict-related violence in Ituri. These survivors face numerous difficulties in navigating judicial and reparations mechanisms. Lusamba welcomed the French minister's visit, which she said demonstrated France's commitment to supporting the Congolese government's efforts to address these issues.
The visit provided an opportunity for SOFEPADI to highlight its work in defending the rights of women and girls, particularly in supporting survivors of conflict-related sexual violence. Lusamba emphasized that the organization's efforts aim to enhance support for survivors and promote better access to justice and reparations. The French minister's engagement has raised hopes that these initiatives will be strengthened.
A significant development announced during the visit was the signing of a fund for women and girls who are victims of conflict in Ituri. Lusamba described the announcement of the French Expertise Fund (FEF) as an important signal for survivors who continue to face numerous obstacles. This fund is expected to facilitate access to justice and reparations for conflict-related violence survivors.
The Democratic Republic of Congo and France have taken a significant step in combating impunity for conflict-related sexual violence with the signing of a declaration of intent in Kinshasa. This declaration aims to facilitate free access to justice for victims and strengthen their right to reparations. The partnership between the two countries is seen as a crucial development in addressing the issue of conflict-related sexual violence.
SOFEPADI's efforts to support survivors of conflict-related violence are part of a broader initiative to promote women's rights and empowerment in Ituri. The organization provides accompaniment and support to survivors, enabling them to access justice and reparations. By highlighting the challenges faced by survivors, SOFEPADI aims to raise awareness and mobilize support for their cause.
The visit by French Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and the signing of the FEF reflect the commitment of France to support the Congolese government's efforts to address conflict-related violence and promote women's rights. The partnership between the two countries is expected to contribute to the development of effective strategies to combat impunity and promote access to justice for survivors of conflict-related violence.
Key points
- The French government has committed to supporting the Congolese government's efforts to address conflict-related violence and promote women's rights.
- A new fund has been announced to support women and girls who are victims of conflict in Ituri.
- The Democratic Republic of Congo and France have signed a declaration of intent to facilitate free access to justice for victims of conflict-related violence.
