Email 464 | Panzi Foundation

FIGHT FOR JUSTICE

Healing at Panzi is not limited to medical care; it is a complete restoration of dignity, autonomy, and access to justice. Our legal pillar is one of the four essential elements of the holistic model for supporting survivors of sexual violence. Through this pillar, survivors can choose to pursue recognition and accountability within the national justice system. For many, this is a crucial step in overcoming the violence they have endured and rebuilding their lives.

For nearly a decade, Master David, our lead lawyer, who joined Panzi in 2015, has been one of the guardians of this pillar.

When survivors come forward, often uncertain of their rights or fearing reprisals, he listens to them patiently, provides clarification, and remains by their side until their voices are heard. His role is both broad and profound.

« My main tasks are… to assist, support and represent victims of human rights violations in general, and women’s rights in particular, before the courts in order to fight against impunity. »

Master David and his team represent survivors and other victims of human rights violations before the judicial authorities, accompanying them to court and following their cases through to a successful conclusion.

In 2024, our legal team achieved a 90% conviction rate in cases brought to trial and resolved 550 other cases through mediation when the facts did not constitute criminal offenses. These figures go far beyond judicial results: they represent women regaining their rights, their dignity, and their place in society.

However, the realities of the conflict in eastern Congo have presented immense challenges.

« The major challenge currently facing the legal system, linked to the conflict, is the near absence of a judicial apparatus. Eastern DRC is currently occupied by rebels who, to date, have not yet established a judicial system, and even if they were to do so, what credibility would it have with the victims of the horrors of war? »

Today, under the occupation of the M23 rebel group, David explains that « the strongest—those with weapons—impose their own law. » In these difficult circumstances, the Panzi legal clinics continue to document cases and refer women to medical, psychological, and economic support.

Thank you for helping survivors transform their courage into justice.