Pete Muller
Best photographic reporting from abroad in newspapers or news services
AWARD DATE: 2011
AWARD NAME: The John Faber Award 2011
AWARD RECIPIENT: Pete Muller
AWARD RECIPIENT AFFILIATION: The Associated Press
AWARD HONORED WORK: Battling Impunity: The Fight Against Mass Rape in Eastern Congo
Muller took an original approach to documenting a sensitive and difficult story, rape in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Opening with anonymous but effective portraits of the victims, and then taking us through the makeshift trials that eventually led to convictions and justice for the victims, Muller illuminates a very dark side of human behavior. The glee and satisfaction reflected on the faces of the public after the verdicts were announced is a remarkable and positive ending to at least a part of an endemic abuse of women’s rights.
A victim of a mass rape campaign in the town of Fizi. Her identity has been concealed for security reasons and because rape carries strong social stigma. She was among nearly 50 women who were raped by Congolese soldiers on January 1, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
A victim of a mass rape campaign in the town of Fizi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Sunday, February 20, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
A victim of a mass rape campaign in the town of Fizi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Sunday, February 20, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
A victim of a mass rape campaign in the town of Fizi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Sunday, February 20, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
Judges in a military tribunal for eleven Congolese soldiers hear arguments during a court session in Baraka, Democratic Republic of Congo on Thursday, February 17, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
Soldiers accused of rape and crimes against humanity slouch in their chairs during a military tribunal in Baraka. The group of 11 was commanded by Lt. Col. Kebibi Mutware, left, who is the highest ranking officer to face such significant charges. Photo: Pete Muller
Defense attorneys listen to rape victims testify against their solider clients during a mass rape trial in the town of Baraka, Democratic Republic of Congo on February 16, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
Prior to the start of a court session, a bailiff removes shackles from prisoners accused of crimes against humanity and rape in Baraka, February 17, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
Lt. Col. Kebibi Mutware listens to arguments against him during a mass rape trial in Baraka, Democratic Republic of Congo on February 18, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
Residents of the town of Baraka, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), observe court proceedings during a mass rape trial on Friday, February 18, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
Lt. Col. Kebibi Mutware exits a mobile military tribunal after being convicted of crimes against humanity in the town of Baraka, Democratic Republic of Congo on February 21, 2011. Photo: Pete Muller
Congolese reacts after the soldiers’ sentencing in Baraka on February 21, 2011. Many in the crowd were angry none of the soldiers were sentenced to death; 10 of 11 were found guilty of crimes against humanity. Photo: Pete Muller
Citation for Excellence:
David Guttenfelder
The Associated Press
“Japan: An Earthquake and Tsunami”