In the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo thousands of women and girls are being raped as a weapon of war, to punishing the society to which they belong. Most cases are gang rapes and often involve mutilation of the women’s genitals with guns or sticks, sometimes in front of their family and neighbours. Rape victims suffer permanent damage to the reproductive system, increased risk of HIV / AIDS infection, and life-long mental health problems. In Congo – where female virginity is highly valued and husbands of rape victims are considered profane – these women are shunned by their families and society. Legal aid is rare and impunity for perpetrators of sexual violence is still a major issue.
Sexual Violence in Eastern Congo portrays a less shown side of the war in Congo. The exhibition is about how rape as a weapon has become a strategy to keep the population in fear and create total chaos. It is about a strategy that focuses on civil society and clearly exposes women and the victimization of children in war zones.
For more information and reservation, please contact Fredens Hus.