#United States #New York #Congo #FONAREV #Génocost

FONAREV Calls for Global Recognition of Congolese Suffering

As the 80th United Nations General Assembly unfolds, Congolese artists, in collaboration with activist group FONAREV, are unveiling a gripping art exhibition intended to raise global awareness about the devastating consequences of long-standing conflicts in Eastern Congo. The exhibition, titled Art for Peace and Resilience, is presented with the support of the Permanent Mission of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the UN, as well as the Inter-Institutional Commission for Assistance to Victims and Support for Reforms (CIA-VAR).

FONAREV's mission is clear: they are committed to shedding light on the atrocities that have plagued their homeland, particularly focusing on the issue of conflict-related sexual violence. This exhibition features artworks from survivors, depicting their pain and perseverance, and serves as a powerful plea for international recognition and advocacy.

One of the central themes of the exhibition is the term "Génocost," which refers to the economic motivations behind the genocide that has affected countless lives in Congo. Since the late 1990s, the conflict has resulted in millions of deaths, largely driven by militant groups aiming to exploit the DRC's rich natural resources. By illustrating these crimes through art, FONAREV hopes to mobilize the international community against not just the violence itself, but the systemic issues contributing to these human rights abuses.

The Executive Coordinator of CIA-VAR, François Kakese, emphasized the importance of collaboration and community involvement in addressing these issues. He stated, "Although there is still a long way to go, our commitment, determination, and everyone's participation are the keys to our success." This sentiment echoes the urgent need for a unified global response to these pressing human rights concerns.

The exhibition is set to run from September 23rd to 26th at 15 E 40th Street, New York, NY 10016, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day. This platform not only highlights the violent legacy endured by Congolese women but also pushes for immediate action from global leaders to acknowledge and rectify these injustices.

FONAREV stands as a pioneering institution, primarily aimed at providing recognition, reparations, and legal support for victims of sexual violence in the DRC. With over 190,000 victims identified to date, the organization is working in tandem with CIA-VAR to not only facilitate individual justice but to implement a broader transitional justice system to address the entrenched inequalities present in Congolese society.

Director General of FONAREV, Patrick Fata, remarked, “Getting the international community to recognize this génocost would mark a turning point in our nation's journey towards ending this violence, and reshaping our collective memory to address the devastation it has wrought.” His comments underscore the significance of global solidarity in facing these atrocities head-on.

Conclusion
The upcoming exhibition presents an unparalleled opportunity for knowledge-sharing and fostering understanding within the international community about the crises in Eastern Congo. As world leaders gather, the message from FONAREV resonates louder than ever: justice and recognition for the victims cannot wait.

For more information and media inquiries, please reach out to Kristen Hayford at +31 619453623 or through email at [email protected]