Transformative Programming
National Network for Survivors of Sexual Violence in the DRC
The National Network for Survivors of Sexual Violence in the DRC (MNSVS-DRC) is a groundbreaking organization founded in 2017 to empower survivors and challenge the stigma surrounding sexual violence. Led by survivors, this movement serves as a powerful voice advocating for justice, support, and the eradication of sexual violence across the Democratic Republic of Congo.
MIssion & Goals
MNSVS-DRC’s mission centers on empowering survivors and creating a platform for them to:
Break the silence
The network challenges the stigma and shame often associated with sexual violence, encouraging survivors to share their stories and seek justice.
Advocate for justice & accountability
MNSVS-DRC works both nationally and internationally to demand accountability for perpetrators and an end to impunity.
Foster solidarity & mutual aid
Survivors support one another, sharing experiences and building networks of solidarity.
Educate communities
The network raises awareness to challenge societal norms that perpetuate sexual violence and advocates for the protection of women’s rights.
Over 3,675 survivor members in the DRC Survivor Network
The MNSVS-DRC is active in seven provinces across the DRC: North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, Haut Katanga, Tshopo, Tanganyika, and Kasai Central. There are ongoing efforts to expand its reach into more provinces to ensure that survivors across the country can access support and resources.
The DRC Survivor Network is proud to foster an inclusive community that values and supports every individual. In addition to welcoming members of all races, ethnicities, abilities, and backgrounds, the DRC Survivor Network is inclusive of all genders, recognizing that sexual violence impacts everyone.
Women survivor members
Male survivor members
Nothing about us, without us.
The DRC Survivor Network is a proud member organization of the Global Network of Victims and Survivors to End Wartime Sexual Violence
MNSVS-DRC has led a wide range of impactful activities, including:
Community awareness sessions, including combating sexual and gender-based violence, ending discrimination against survivors and children born of rape, promoting access to medical and psychosocial care, and advocating for justice and reparations.
Screenings of the film “SEMA”, which raises awareness about sexual violence by sharing survivor stories.
Advocacy for policy change, contributing to the creation of a national reparation fund for survivors and the recognition of August 2nd as a day of commemoration for victims of war in the DRC.
Engagement with international figures such as King Philippe of Belgium and the Duchess of Edinburgh of the UK to advocate for justice and reparations.
Participation in international conferences, including the SEMA Global Survivors Network retreat and the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative (PSVI) conference.
Watch the film
Based on the true stories of 60 women survivors of sexual violence in Eastern DRC
Ninety percent of the film, SEMA, was written and acted by survivors of rape and sexual violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo whose goal is to raise awareness and encourage people to break the silence on all the atrocities and stigma they live everyday.
A force for Change
The National Movement for Survivors of Sexual Violence in the DRC is a vital force driving change in the country. By empowering survivors to become advocates, leaders, and agents of transformation, MNSVS-DRC works toward a future free from sexual violence, where survivors are no longer silenced or stigmatized but supported and empowered to rebuild their lives. Through their courage and collective action, survivors are shaping a new reality in the DRC—one where justice, dignity, and equality are within reach.
Stand up. Stand strong. Stand with us.