Why do men use sexual violation as a weapon of war? Is it because women are pre-disposition biologically and/or socially? Biological predisposition entails their unique reproductive ability to bear children and social pre-disposition encompass their socially ascribed roles as care-taker and care-giver. Rape and all forms of sexual violence is more than prominent in the DRC, especially in in the Kivu Provinces. According to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees report on May 8, 2009, there are "some 1.8 million Internally Displaced Persons in North Kivu as a result of fighting and instability since late 2006. At least 75 percent of the displaced live with host families. Approximately 100,000 IDPs are temporarily accommodated in 11 UNHCR-run sites across the province," (UNHCR Briefing Notes, 2009).WATCH CONGO REBELS - DRC
It is extremely worrisome to know that this tragical war, branded as "Africa's World War" is more of a war on women. Women and girls unfortunate to be displaced or transitioning to a "place of refuge" are at risks of being gang raped, violated and abused. Women should not have to bear the brunt of African men selfishness, greed and political gimmicks. Moreover, although over 5.4 million people have died in the terrible war, their stories and cries never make it to the Western media. It is worth noting that the war in the DRC is not just marely a war of justice and equality, it is a war fuel by Western neo-liberalism (capitalism), corruption and insensitivity. Illicit trade of diamonds, small arms, Cassiterite and coltan (in our cell phones) drive the massive killing of innocent people in the DRC.
WATCH THE GRAND THEFT CONGO - DRC
The question for discussion is what can be done to reduce the suffering of women and girls in the DRC? Do you think the African Commission on People's and Human Rights have some stake in restoring lasting peace in the DRC? How can African women in the diaspora contribute to raising the profile of IDP women and girls in the DRC? Your contribution is of OUT MOST RELEVANCE!!!
SEXUAL VIOLENCE IN CONGO
Written by: Veronica Fynn
UPDATES
August 28, 2009: DRC Displacement Update
August 11, 2009: Hilary Clinton Condemns Impunity in Eastern Congo
August 10, 2009: Healing the Wounds of Sexual Violence in DRC
