Ciné-ONU: Addressing sexual violence in DR Congo

The movie offers a deeply human portrayal of a doctor confronting the devastating consequences of war at Panzi, Dr. Mukwege’s hospital in the eastern DRC. It follows the story of the “Muganga” as he treats survivors of extreme sexual violence in the face of personal threats and violence. The film highlights both the physical and psychological trauma endured by patients, while also emphasizing the resilience and dignity of the victims i.e. Congolese women. Beyond its narrative, the film sheds light on a broader geopolitical and national context marked by decades of instability in the eastern DRC. In this environment, sexual violence has been systematically used as a weapon of war to terrorize communities and exert control over critical raw earths and materials.

Despite ongoing efforts by the Congolese authorities and international partners, including the European Union and the United Nations, significant challenges remain in addressing impunity and ensuring justice for survivors. The work of figures like Dr. Denis Mukwege has been instrumental in bringing international attention to these crimes, contributing to advocacy efforts that link medical care with legal accountability and policy reform.

In this context, the EU Delegation reaffirms its commitment to promoting human rights, gender equality, and the fight against sexual and gender-based violence. Events like this not only have the power to inform but also to inspire collective responsibility and action.

The discussion following the screening brought together a distinguished panel of experts who offered diverse and also personal perspectives on the issues raised by the film. Participants included Guy-Bernard Cadière, surgeon and notably an important partner of Dr. Mukwege, Esther Dingemans (Global Survivors Fund), Sofia Calltorp (UN Women), and Jasmine Abdulcadir (HUG/UNIGE). The exchange focused on critical themes such as the importance of educating men to challenge harmful norms, the persistent issue of impunity for perpetrators, and the structural factors that enable such crimes to continue. Audience questions further enriched the discussion, reflecting a strong engagement with the topic and a shared commitment to advancing solutions.