High-Level Lobbying Advocates for 50% Women's Representation in Next DRC Government

The Networks of Young Congolese Women, represented by Rosiane Kabangu, met with President Félix Tshisekedi and Prime Minister Judith Tuluka of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to advocate for 50% women's representation in the next government. The high-level lobbying effort aims to ensure the inclusivity of youth issues at the highest levels of governance and allow women to have a say in major decisions.

During the meetings, the representatives recommended priorities such as security, peace, education, and youth entrepreneurship. Cultural ambassador Princesse Ngamba emphasized the importance of employment and entrepreneurship to address unemployment and insecurity among the youth in the DRC. The Networks of Young Congolese Women requested that the Head of State be informed of their discussions and that they see the outcomes of their advocacy efforts.

Why this matters: The push for equal representation of women in the DRC government highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality in politics and decision-making roles. If successful, this initiative could serve as a model for other countries in the region and contribute to the empowerment of women and youth in the DRC.

The DRC has faced significant challenges in recent years, including ongoing conflicts, sexual violence, and displacement. A UN report documented a 50% increase in cases of rape and other sexual violence committed in war in 2023, with 95% of the victims being women and girls. The report covered incidents across 21 situations of concern, including in the DRC, where sexual violence has curtailed women's access to livelihoods and girls' access to education amid record levels of displacement.

The high-level lobbying effort by the Networks of Young Congolese Women seeks to address these issues by ensuring that women have a strong voice in the government and can influence policies that affect their lives. Rosiane Kabangu, representing the Networks of Young Congolese Women, stated, "We want to see concrete actions and outcomes from our advocacy efforts. It is critical that women and youth are included in decision-making processes at the highest levels of governance."

Key Takeaways

• Young Congolese women advocate for 50% representation in government.
• Priorities include security, peace, education, and youth entrepreneurship.
• Effort aims to ensure inclusivity of youth issues in governance.
• DRC faces challenges like conflicts, sexual violence, and displacement.
• Advocacy seeks to empower women and youth in decision-making.