GBV Justice and Accountability Initiative

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has experienced decades of conflict and gender-based violence, especially in the North Kivu province. Despite laws against gender-based violence, enforcement is weak, and only 10% of cases that reach court are ruled in favor of survivors. Lack of knowledge among authorities and civil society hinders justice and accountability.

At the turn of the year 2024/2025, the UN peacekeeping forces (MONUSCO) will leave the country, increasing pressure on Congolese authorities to strengthen their capacity. It is a critical time to enhance both authorities’ and civil society’s ability to manage the void left by MONUSCO’s departure.

CARE Norway aims to strengthen the knowledge and capacity of authorities, civil society, and the public in DRC regarding laws and accountability to reduce impunity and increase justice for gender-based violence.

The project is supported with 3 000 000 SEK.

What happens in the project?

The project’s activities will be carried out in three areas in the North Kivu province.

– Training sessions with authorities and civil society representatives on laws, processes, and accountability principles.
– Information meetings for the public on the issue.
– Evaluations of existing processes and practices, followed by joint recommendations.
– Workshops to develop action plans and concrete commitments from authorities.
– Legal support for survivors through mobile legal clinics.
– CARE collaborates with Dynamique des Femmes Juristes (DFJ) for legal support to survivors.
– Pilot project to test the method’s potential to strengthen legal systems in the transition to self-governance after the withdrawal of UN forces.

Why did the project receive support?

It is crucial to act now as the UN peacekeeping forces (MONUSCO) leave the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The political situation is fragile, but the government wants to strengthen its institutions, creating opportunities for the transformation of the justice system. The project is innovative and includes public, non-profit, and community involvement to ensure survivors’ voices are heard and create sustainability. The focus is on providing justice for survivors within the legal system.

CARE Norway, with extensive experience working in complex regions, has the capacity to implement the project. They collaborate with Dynamique des Femmes Juristes (DFJ), which has expertise in the Congolese legal system. If the project is successful, there is potential for replication in other countries where UN forces withdraw.