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Turmoil in Congo will catalyse sexual violence - NGO

Turmoil in Congo will catalyse sexual violence - NGO
By Agness Changala
Fri 16 Dec. 2011, 13:59 CAT

THE African Civil Society has expressed fear that post-election violence in Congo will catalyse widespread sexual and gender-based violence.

The organisation stated this in view of the ongoing International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) in Kampala, Uganda, from December 15 to 16, 2011 on sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) under the theme 'United to Prevent, End Impunity and Provide Support to the Victims of SGBV in the Great Lakes Region.

In a press release, the civil society called on ICGLR member states to implement the 2006 pact on security, stability and development in the region to avert not only post-election violence in member states but any other form of violence.

It recommended the launch of a presidential campaign on 'zero tolerance' on SGBV crimes and impunity.

The organisation recommended allocation of specific and adequate funding for SGBV prevention programmes and adoption of a comprehensive SGBV performance index for annual purpose.

The organisation also wanted member states to establish national funds to provide assistance for survivors of SGBV in line with ICGLR protocol on the prevention and suppression of sexual violence against women and coalition (2006).

The civil society also called for institutionalised early warning and response mechanism for SGBV at community level including community policing.

Labels: DRC, NGOs, WAR CRIMES

posted by MrK @ 4:12 PM