Source: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/karennaimer_kingdomnl-un-kavumu-activity-7256500045078843392-FHRQ/
I recently had the honor of participating in an event hosted by the @UN Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict (@endrapeinwar) and the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the UN. This event included a screening of a new film on the Kavumu case in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), followed by a critical discussion on “15 Years of Advancing Accountability for Sexual Violence in Conflict.”
The event commemorated the 15th anniversary of the mandate of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict and the establishment of the Team of Experts. Over the past decade and a half, these entities have made significant strides in advancing justice for survivors of sexual violence, particularly through landmark rulings in national courts in the DRC, Guinea, and the Central African Republic (CAR). These rulings have become symbols of hope and accountability for survivors.
I had the privilege of joining a panel of esteemed professionals, including Dr. Bahia Tahzib-Lie, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the UN; Yaya Kairaba Kaba, Minister of Justice of Guinea; David Bodeli Dombi, former Head of the South Kivu Child Protection and Sexual Violence Unit in the DRC, and Investigation Advisor at the Special Criminal Court (CAR); and Claudine Tsongo from Dynamique de Femmes. Together, we engaged in deep discussions on how legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms have evolved to support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
As a representative of Physicians for Human Rights, I spoke about the powerful role that medical-legal collaboration can play in strengthening the security, resilience, and resolve of the professionals and providers who support survivors of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). By working across sectors, we can amplify our efforts to deliver justice and care. These communities of practice are more than just professional networks—they can also become sources of lasting friendships, united by a shared commitment to justice and healing.
This event not only showcased the progress made over the past 15 years but also reminded us of the ongoing challenges and the need to continue advocating for justice, security, and support for survivors of sexual violence in conflict zones. I look forward to continuing this vital work alongside such dedicated and inspiring individuals and organizations.
