06/16/2026
International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
Today, on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, Helping Hand for Survivors (HHS) stands in solidarity with all survivors of torture, cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment across the Democratic Republic of the Congo and around the world.
As violence and insecurity continue to affect many communities in Eastern DRC, countless women, men, and children endure physical and psychological suffering resulting from armed conflict, arbitrary detention, sexual violence, intimidation, and other forms of abuse. Torture remains a grave violation of human rights and an assault on human dignity that can never be justified under any circumstance.
We honor the courage of survivors who continue to rebuild their lives despite unimaginable trauma. Their resilience reminds us that justice, accountability, and healing must remain at the center of all peacebuilding and protection efforts. Helping Hand for Survivors calls upon:
1. Government authorities to uphold national and international human rights obligations and ensure that perpetrators of torture are held accountable.
2..Armed groups and all parties to the conflict to immediately cease acts of torture, sexual violence, and other human rights violations.
3. Humanitarian and development partners to strengthen support services for survivors, including medical care, psychosocial support, legal assistance, and economic empowerment.
4. Communities, to reject violence, protect the vulnerable, and promote a culture of respect for human dignity and human rights.
The protection of human life and dignity is not optional it is a fundamental obligation. No person should suffer torture because of their gender, ethnicity, political views, social status, or place of origin. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to standing with survivors, amplifying their voices, and advocating for a Democratic Republic of the Congo where every person can live free from fear, violence, and torture.
Torture is a crime. Silence enables it. Justice and protection must prevail.
Helping Hand for Survivors (HHS) – DRC
Supporting Survivors. #