Reference : V-P-CD-E-02140
Date : 15/04/2014
Caption : Orientale Province, Banda. The manager of the DRC Red Cross theater group, which is part of the ICRC psycho-social support program.
Photographer : VAN DER BELEN, Martin
Confidentiality level : public
Publication restrictions : publication without restrictions
Copyright : ICRC
Description : ICRC web site 26.06.2014: Since 2012, volunteers from the Red Cross Society of the DRC, religious leaders and teachers have been putting on popular theatre productions exploring various trauma-related themes. “The plays are a means of expression, education and awareness-raising among local communities. They portray the signs of violence-related trauma and the dangers and consequences of stigmatizing those affected,” explains Samuel, who leads the Red Cross drama group.

“Solutions to the victims’ psychological problems lie within the community itself. Through drama, members of the community can engage with the issue and share ideas about how to support those who have been affected by the violence in one way or another.”

The plays cover a range of themes, including victims’ experiences, their return home, stigmatization, helpful attitudes in the community, and counselling. The aim is to change people’s attitudes towards survivors of the violence. A question-and-answer session allows the audience to interact with the psychosocial counsellors present and propose solutions to the problems depicted in the play. These drama productions are often put on early in the morning or at sunset, so as not to interrupt work in the fields.
Original material : digital
Resolution : 3456x5184
Orientation : portrait
Colour/B&W : colour

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