On Monday 26 November, the EU announced additional support of around €5 million for projects set up by the two 2018 Nobel Peace Prize winners, Nadia Murad and Dr Denis Mukwege, both distinguished for their efforts to combat the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war.
This announcement was made by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, at the Foreign Affairs Council meeting in 'Development’ format. This meeting, over lunch, was devoted to a discussion with the two Nobel Prize winners and the European Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development, Neven Mimica (see EUROPE 12143).
In a statement to the press following the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Ms Mogherini said that supporting the concrete projects of Ms Murad and Dr Mukwenge was "the best way to celebrate this day". This assistance is part of the broader Spotlight Initiative, launched in 2017 by the EU in partnership with the UN and supported by €500 million.
Some €4 million will ensure the continuity of the holistic support programme for survivors of sexual violence and women suffering from gynaecological conditions at the Panzi Hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Dr Mukwenge said that this holistic work includes medical and psychological care, followed by a programme of socio-economic care and legal support. "The EU has been an exceptional support. For more than ten years, we have benefited from its humanitarian aid. Now, with development assistance, we will be able to support these women and reintegrate them into society. When these women return to their lives, they are real agents of change. It should be a right for all women in conflict areas to receive comprehensive care," he said.
The EU will contribute €1 million to Nadia Murad's "Sinjar Action Fund" initiative to support the reconstruction of this region in Iraq to help displaced populations return. "Women deserve the right of being free from violence," said the young Yazidi. She said "we will make the best benefit of this money”. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)