Rights of the Child in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

This report to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child contains observations of the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT) concerning the application of the Convention by Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The report's introductory summary asserts that although the DRC has ratified the Convention and other international instruments condemning the practice of torture, torture seems to be systematically used in the DRC. The report notes that the current conflict in the DRC has resulted in large numbers of children being recruited/forced into armed service, killed, or displaced. Considerable discrimination is evident against girls, displaced children, refugee children, child soldiers, street children, and ethnic minority children. The report presents observations and recommendations in the following areas: (1) definition of a child; (2) torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment; (3) protection against all forms of violence, particularly sexual abuse; (4) children in conflict with the law; and (5) rehabilitation. The report's conclusion maintains that the state's report demonstrates its awareness of obstacles to applying the Convention, but has omitted important information, especially concerning ill-treatment and cases of torture. The report concludes with a summary of observations and recommendations by the U.N. Committee on the Rights of the Child--Democratic Republic of the Congo, including those related to legislation; budget allocation; cooperation with nongovernmental organizations; civil rights and freedom; family environment and alternative care; basic health and welfare; education, leisure, and cultural activities; and special protection. (Contains 61 footnotes.) (KB)