DRC: Challenges in Addressing Impunity for Horrific Crimes

Human Rights Watch strongly believes that accountability for serious past crimes is the foundation for post-conflict reconstruction based on the rule of law and respect for human rights. This Briefing Paper looks at the challenges in addressing impunity for the horrific crimes that have been committed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo since 1996. The Briefing Paper discusses several aspects of disarray in the national justice system to highlight some of the most significant problems undercutting the capacity of national courts to prosecute serious human rights crimes. It provides several concrete recommendations for initiatives and reforms that would enhance the capacity of national courts to address these crimes.