Call for Written Submissions

On 31 October 2024, the DRC Inquiry issued a call for written submissions. 

The DRC Inquiry is an inquiry into the issue of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in the DRC and the legal responses thereto. The DRC Inquiry is led by cross-party Parliamentarians from the UK Parliament, chaired by Baroness Helena Kennedy of The Shaws LT KC, and conducted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on International Law, Justice and Accountability, and the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute. The Inquiry is to consider the situation in the DRC and identify practical and meaningful steps that can be taken by the UK Government (as well as other States) to address it, as a matter of urgent international concern.

Aims of the Inquiry 

The aim of the Inquiry is to: 

1. Consider the scale and nature of CRSV in the DRC, historic, but also recent occurrences of the crime, and map the developing trends;

2. Explore the legal responses taken to date, with a particular focus on good practices, failed responses, and identifying gaps requiring attention;

3. Identify justice and accountability avenues for legal recourse that could be taken;

4. Engage the UK Government and international actors with recommendations on assistance to the community.

Objectives 

The main objective of this Inquiry is to consider the issue of CRSV in the DRC, the legal responses taken and those that could be taken to address it, as a matter of urgent international concern. It is also to provide a platform to victims/survivors and civil society organisations working with them and ensure that they shape the recommendations for the UK Government. 

Evidence gathering and timetable 

The Inquiry is to proceed in five stages, starting as soon as possible. 

First, it would undertake a short mapping exercise identifying the evidence in relation to CRSV in the DRC and information available in relation to the legal responses;

Second, it would conduct an open call for submissions relating to evidence, facts on the ground and the application of relevant law. 

Third, it would organise 2-3 hearings with experts and witnesses. 

Fourth, the Inquiry will publish a report on its findings and recommendations. 

Fifth, it would engage the UK Government, other States, and international organisations with the findings and recommendations throughout the inquiry and upon completion of the Inquiry.

Call for written submissions 

The Inquiry invites anyone with relevant knowledge to submit written responses to the below questions. Please respond only to questions relating to your expertise or experience. 

The responses are to be sent via email to Dr Ewelina Ochab (ewelina.ochab@int-bar.org) and Emily Foale (emily.foale@int-bar.org).

The deadline for responses is 10 December 2024. 

Questions 

CRSV in the DRC today

• How would you describe the issue of CRSV in the DRC today?

• What are the emerging trends?

• How has this situation been changing, if at all, over recent months or years?

• Who are the perpetrators?

• What are the conditions that enable or exacerbate the situation?

  
  

Legal avenues for justice

• What are the main legal avenues for justice for victims/survivors of CRSV in the DRC?

• What are the main challenges experienced by victims/survivors?

• What is needed in the DRC in terms of justice and accountability? What do victims/survivors mention as their priority?

Assistance to victims/survivors?

• What assistance is needed by victims/survivors?

• Is this assistance available in the region? if so, who is providing it? What are the limitations?

Misc

• Any other comments?