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As the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) escalated in January 2025, tensions between government forces and the M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, intensified dramatically. The M23’s capture of Goma, the North Kivu provincial capital, signaled a major shift in the conflict, with the armed group subsequently advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. The conflict has forced hundreds of thousands of individuals to flee their homes, creating a significant humanitarian crisis as many sought refuge in internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps.
This region, rich in valuable minerals, has long been a hotspot for violence, witnessing decades of armed conflict and the presence of numerous militia groups. As violence escalates, communities are feeling the effects acutely, with IDP camps rapidly filling as people flee ongoing hostilities. Medical facilities are becoming increasingly overwhelmed by a rising number of injuries, predominantly affecting civilians caught in the crossfire.
In April 2025, reports from the United Nations highlighted the concerning increase in sexual violence related to the conflict. The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) revealed thousands of new cases of sexual violence in just a two-month span, framing this heinous crime as a weapon of war and a means of instilling terror. UNICEF spokesperson James Elder noted that children could represent nearly 45% of the almost 10,000 cases of reported sexual violence documented in January and February. This alarming statistic translates to a horrific reality in which a child is assaulted every half hour. The true extent of these violations is likely even greater, as stigma, fear, and insecurity often prevent survivors from coming forward.
Moreover, the situation for survivors is perilous, further complicated by a significant funding shortfall impacting critical services. UNICEF has warned that without additional financial support, about 250,000 children will be deprived of essential services related to gender-based violence and protection in armed conflict over the next three months. UNICEF is calling for enhanced prevention measures, survivor-centered services, and secure reporting mechanisms that allow individuals to report abuse without fear of retribution.
As the situation in the DRC continues to deteriorate and the M23 rebels expand their territorial control, alarming reports of sexual violence, particularly against women and girls, are coming to light. In just one week after the M23’s advance into Goma, around 500 cases of sexual violence were reported, with over 150 of those involving children. During a prison breakout in January, many female inmates faced horrific violence; some were raped, while others were killed and burned alive. In late February, humanitarian organizations documented 895 cases of rape in just a two-week period, indicating a staggering average of more than 60 incidents per day.
The use of sexual violence as a strategic weapon of war in the DRC is a longstanding issue, with roots tracing back to colonial occupation and continuing through to the present day. Although there have been some steps toward addressing this crisis, prevention remains largely unfulfilled. Existing accountability measures illustrate the potential for justice, but they barely scratch the surface of the profound challenges that remain. The persistent violence in the DRC not only enables acts of sexual violence to occur with impunity, but it also fosters an environment where such atrocities can thrive.
Until stability is achieved in the DRC, where various militias, including the M23, continue to exert their influence, women and girls will remain vulnerable to sexual violence. This grim reality is palpable and demands an urgent, comprehensive response from both local and international communities.
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