Sexual Violence (Democratic Republic of the Congo)

Answer: The hon. Gentleman is quite right that rape is used as a weapon of war, but it has now gone beyond that in the DRC. It is used to humiliate and terrify, tearing up families and communities. We are working on a major programme to reform the security and justice sector. We need a well-run, trusted and accountable police force, army and supporting civil service; we are ensuring that victims also support the legal process; we are training magistrates; and we are lobbying for more prosecutions.

This is an answer to the Oral question asked on Wednesday, 11 June 2008 by John Barrett (Liberal Democrat).

Question: Rape has been used a weapon of war in the Congo, but now general lawlessness has broken out throughout the country. What can the Department do to strengthen the judicial system there and to make sure that women are a key part of that system?

Secondary information

Type: Oral answer to question
Reference: 477 c296
Session: 2007-08
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Crimes of violence Sexual offences Democratic Republic of the Congo
Link: View this Oral answer to question on www.publications.parliament.uk