By HICGI Staff – Updated at 10:19 EAT on Thursday 29th Feb 2024

In a landmark decision, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has ordered a record-breaking compensation of Shs223 billion to victims of atrocities committed by former Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) commander Dominic Ongwen in northern Uganda. The ruling marks a significant step towards justice for the countless individuals and communities affected by Ongwen’s reign of terror.

Dominic Ongwen, a one-time child soldier abducted by the LRA, was convicted by the ICC in February 2021 on 61 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including murder, rape, and forced marriage. His conviction sent a powerful message that perpetrators of grave crimes will be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their circumstances or background.

The decision to award compensation to Ongwen’s victims comes after years of legal proceedings and advocacy efforts by survivors and human rights organizations. The Shs223 billion award represents the largest-ever sum of money ordered by the ICC for reparations in a single case, underscoring the severity and scale of the crimes committed by Ongwen and the devastating impact they had on individuals and communities in northern Uganda.

The compensation order is a critical step towards acknowledging the suffering and loss experienced by Ongwen’s victims and providing them with the support they need to rebuild their lives and communities. The funds will be used to provide a range of reparations, including individual compensation, rehabilitation and psychological support, educational and vocational training, and community-based projects aimed at promoting reconciliation and healing.

The ICC’s decision to award compensation to Ongwen’s victims sends a powerful message that the international community stands in solidarity with survivors of conflict-related atrocities and is committed to ensuring that they receive the justice and support they deserve. It also underscores the importance of accountability for grave crimes and the role of the ICC in holding perpetrators to account for their actions.

While the compensation order represents a significant victory for Ongwen’s victims, it is important to recognize that it is just one step in a long and complex process of healing and reconciliation. The road to recovery for survivors of conflict-related violence is often fraught with challenges, and sustained support and assistance will be needed to address the long-term impact of trauma and displacement.

As Uganda continues to grapple with the legacy of the LRA insurgency and other conflicts, the ICC’s decision to award compensation to Ongwen’s victims serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability, justice, and reparations in building a more peaceful and inclusive society. By honoring the experiences and voices of survivors, we can work towards a future where the cycle of violence is broken, and all individuals and communities can live in dignity and security.

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