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High-ranking officials from the United Nations issued a stark warning on Wednesday that all factions engaged in the ongoing conflict are systematically employing sexual violence as a strategy against innocent civilians.
Escalating Crisis in the East
The surge in violent hostilities led by non-state armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has significantly intensified incidents of sexual violence, particularly impacting women and children.
This year, the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have taken control of crucial eastern cities like Goma and Bukavu, further destabilizing a region already plagued by years of turmoil and strife among various armed groups.
UN peacekeepers are tasked under a mandate from the Security Council with the dual roles of safeguarding civilians and facilitating humanitarian aid delivery.
“In light of this extraordinary security and humanitarian crisis, the plight of women and children is increasingly alarming,” emphasized UN representatives.
Children are facing severe violations of their rights—including abduction and recruitment into armed factions—while also being at heightened risk for sexual violence.
Local militias have coerced young girls into early unions. Since February, reports indicate that at least nine girls have been forced into marriage, as per the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
Continual Displacement Dilemma
The DRC is experiencing one of the gravest displacement crises worldwide, with approximately 7.8 million individuals internally displaced. Currently, nearly 9,000 of these displaced persons reside in 50 collective centers in North Kivu, according to OCHA.
Safety concerns, rampant looting, and restricted access to humanitarian aid have exacerbated living conditions. Attacks on healthcare facilities and a dire lack of medical supplies are putting further pressure on survivors, especially those in need of essential HIV treatment, which has become increasingly scarce.
The ongoing conflict has forced around 1.1 million Congolese to seek refuge in neighboring nations, with children comprising more than half of this displaced population.
The Challenge of Impunity and Insufficient Support
In spite of the extensive nature of the crisis, incidents of sexual violence are frequently underreported due to the societal stigma, fear of retaliation, and limited access to humanitarian services. Survivors often encounter significant barriers when trying to obtain medical care, mental health services, and legal protection.
UN representatives have urgently called for immediate accountability measures and the establishment of responses that are both gender-sensitive and focused on the needs of children.
Reinstating vital humanitarian assistance and protective services is crucial for supporting survivors in regaining their health, dignity, and sense of security amidst this chaotic environment.
Source
news.un.org