After the publication of an independent report confirming this week that 21 of the 83 cases of sexual exploitation and abuse were committed by UN staff, President Tshisekedi expressed his ” indignation », « condemned despicable facts “, But still” saluted the courage WHO for publicly denouncing these crimes committed by its agents, government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said after the Oct. 1 cabinet meeting.
Donor countries raise the tone
Donor countries have denounced for months the slowness of the investigation and the lack of transparency of the WHO on sexual violence. This time they are banging their fists on the table. United States, European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Norway and United Kingdom sign a joint declaration in which they say “ horrified “And are surprised that such acts have not been reported” neither to WHO management nor to member countries “. They require “ l’engagement total of the international organization and its leaders to achieve zero tolerance towards sexual exploitation and violence ».
For lack of results, the European Commission threatens to cut food to the WHO, indicates its spokesperson Myriam Garcia Ferrer. ” The commission is in close contact with the WHO and will use all means at its disposal to ensure that the WHO remedies the situation by taking all corrective measures. We are ready to review and suspend funding, as with any partner that does not respect ethical and professional rules and standards. The EU and all donor countries also demand that justice be done for the victims.
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