Support 1000 Sexual Violence survivors in DR Congo

In the first quarter of 2019 our partners assisted 491 sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) victims/survivors to access psycho-social and medical support (370 in South Kivu and 347 in North Kivu), of whom 259 (52%) victims/survivors were referred to either a hospital or local health centre for further treatment. Specifically, 128 (26%) victims/survivors were referred to a hospital for specialised treatment, most commonly for reparative surgeries for rape-related injuries; and 131 (26%) victims/survivors were referred to a local health centre.

In addition to medical assistance, the project also provides information and referrals to legal clinics for those who wish to seek redress and justice for the SGBV incidents. In the first quarter of 2019, the project referred 133 victims/survivors to legal clinics in South Kivu and several were supported through the justice process with partners acting as victims’ advocates.

Additionally, 532 community sessions were held, involving 643 participants. The outreach sessions raised awareness within the community to reduce stigma for victims of SGBV, provided information about the services available for victims of these crimes, and stressed the importance of reporting SGBV incidents rather than accepting informal agreements with the perpetrator or the perpetrator’s family. 

In addition to direct services, partners held consultations with survivors on the issue of sexual violence as part of our ongoing Call it what it is campaign which is developing a civil society declaration on the definition of sexual violence to guide legal practitioners.

 

Links:

• See more about our work here

Links:

• Learn more about theCall it what it iscampaign