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Biography:
Julienne Lusenge is a Congolese human rights activist and a prominent figure in the fight against wartime sexual violence. Born and raised in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Lusenge has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights of survivors and seeking justice for the atrocities committed against women.
Lusenge’s journey as a human rights champion began in 1998 when she was working as a journalist in the eastern DRC. As a radio broadcaster responsible for conveying essential health and human rights information to remote villages, Lusenge had a unique platform to connect with the local communities. During the escalation of the civil war, she started interviewing women and documenting their stories.
What she uncovered was deeply disturbing: a widespread pattern of sexual violence committed against women in the region. Overwhelmed by the horrific accounts shared by victims, Lusenge decided to confront this issue head-on. She courageously exposed the systematic rape and abuse inflicted upon Congolese women, shining a light on their suffering.
Driven by her commitment to change, Lusenge co-founded the Female Solidarity for Integrated Peace and Development (SOFEPADI) in 2000. This organization, comprising Lusenge and 22 other activists, aimed to raise awareness about gender-based violence and address the needs of survivors. Lusenge and her colleagues worked tirelessly to bring international attention to the issue, including engaging with the United Nations and other international organizations operating in the region.
SOFEPADI’s mission extended beyond advocacy. The organization provided critical support and resources to survivors on their path to recovery, helping them navigate the complex judicial system and seek justice against their perpetrators. By amplifying the voices of survivors, Lusenge and her team empowered them to assert their rights and fight against the culture of impunity.
In 2007, Lusenge expanded her impact by establishing another non-profit organization, the Congolese Women’s Fund (FFC). The aim of FFC was to bridge the gap between local women’s initiatives and international donors, ensuring that Congolese women’s rights groups had access to the necessary funding. Lusenge’s vision was to empower these groups to create sustainable change within their communities and address gender inequality at its roots.
Recognizing the power of information in combating gender-based violence and poverty, Lusenge also became a senior partner for Media Matters for Women. Through this partnership, she worked to bridge the digital divide for women and girls in poor, isolated communities in Africa. By providing access to vital information about their rights and the dangers of gender-based violence, Lusenge aimed to empower marginalized individuals and uplift their voices.
Lusenge’s advocacy work has extended well beyond the borders of the DRC. She currently serves on the advisory committee of the International Campaign to Stop Rape and Gender Violence in Conflict Zones, where she contributes her expertise and experience to addressing this global issue. Lusenge’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she has been the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions.
In 2016, Lusenge received the prestigious Ginetta Sagan Award from Amnesty International for her exceptional work in defending the rights of women in conflict zones. The following year, she was honored with the Human Rights Award by the Embassy of France and named a Knight of the Legion of Honour by the French Government, further cementing her contributions to the human rights field.
In 2018, Lusenge was presented with the Women’s International Rights Award by the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy, recognizing her tireless efforts in advancing women’s rights and combating sexual violence. Most recently, in 2021, she was awarded the International Women of Courage Award and the highly esteemed Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity.
Julienne Lusenge’s unwavering dedication, bravery, and relentless pursuit of justice have positioned her as a true beacon of hope for survivors of sexual violence. Through her advocacy and activism, she has not only shed light on the harrowing experiences endured by Congolese women but has also inspired a global movement for change. Lusenge’s profound impact on society and remarkable contributions to women’s history make her a true champion for human rights.
Awards:
– 2016: Ginetta Sagan Award from Amnesty International
– 2018: Women’s International Rights Award from the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy
– Human Rights Award from the Embassy of France
– Knight of the Legion of Honour by the French Government
– 2021: International Women of Courage Award
– 2021: Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity