Kinshasa: Amnesty International has launched a global campaign titled "6 Million Voices for Justice for Congo," urging six million people worldwide to sign a petition demanding justice for victims and survivors of the prolonged conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has lasted over three decades and claimed an estimated six million lives. According to Amnesty International, the campaign calls for the establishment of an international judicial mechanism to investigate crimes under international law committed by Congolese and foreign security forces, armed groups, and other actors between 1993 and 2003. Vongai Chikwanda, Amnesty International's Deputy Regional Director for Campaigns in East and Southern Africa, emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "Victims and survivors have been promised justice for decades, yet most of the perpetrators of these horrific violations have not been held to account." The conflict, marked by brutal fighting and repeated attacks against civilians, ha s led to the displacement of millions and the use of rape as a weapon of war, affecting countless women and girls. Amnesty International calls on President Tshisekedi to collaborate with the African Union and the United Nations to establish an effective international judicial mechanism to address these crimes, ensure reparations for victims, and hold perpetrators accountable. The campaign advocates for the adoption of a law establishing mixed chambers within DRC's appeal courts, competent for all crimes under international law committed on DRC territory. It also calls for creating a tribunal composed of Congolese and foreign judges to address crimes committed during the Congo wars of 1993-2003. Amnesty International further proposes the establishment of October 1 as an annual Day of Reflection and Action on Crimes under International Law Committed in the DRC. This date commemorates the release of the United Nations Mapping Report in 2010, which documented extensive human rights abuses in the DRC between 199 3 and 2003. The day would serve as a moment for remembrance, education, and a renewed commitment to justice. The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, fueled by historical tensions and the presence of numerous armed groups, continues to impact civilians, particularly in the eastern regions. The campaign by Amnesty International is a renewed push for justice, accountability, and the protection of civilians in the DRC, calling for global solidarity and action to confront the legacy and continuation of mass atrocities in the region.
