“The persistent insecurity in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to endanger the lives of humanitarians engaged in the field. A critical situation that has reached alarming proportions in 2024, with at least 268 security incidents recorded, according to data provided by Bruno Lemarquis, humanitarian coordinator. These eloquent figures underline the gravity of the situation in a country where the exercise of humanitarian aid is marked by immeasurable challenges.
The DRC is among the most dangerous terrain for humanitarian actors, exposed to human rights violations and deadly violence. Statistics show a 39% increase in security incidents compared to the previous year, and the sad toll of 7 losses of human life among members of the humanitarian community since the beginning of the year cannot be ignored.
However, despite these risks inherent to their mission, humanitarians continue to work with determination to meet the needs of the most vulnerable populations. In the first half of 2024, more than 61,000 survivors of gender-based violence were supported, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of humanitarian organizations to protect and support those most in need.
Clashes between the Congolese armed forces and armed groups, such as the M23 in North Kivu, as well as recurring violence in other provinces such as South Kivu and Tanganyika, have led to massive population displacement. With more than 6.4 million displaced people registered across the country, the humanitarian crisis in the DRC ranks among the most serious in the world in terms of internal displacement.
The Goma region remains particularly worrying, with up to 750,000 displaced people living in extremely difficult conditions, exposed to epidemics and gender-based violence. Despite the financial commitment of the international community, with a planned funding of $2.6 billion to respond to the crisis, only 37% of this amount has been mobilized, highlighting the persistent challenges in financing humanitarian operations.
The tragedy of the death of a humanitarian worker at a Wazalendo roadblock in Kalehe and the critical situation of 211 schools occupied by displaced people, depriving thousands of children of their right to education, highlight the devastating consequences of the humanitarian crisis in the DRC.
Faced with these colossal challenges, it is imperative to strengthen support for humanitarian actors on the ground, guarantee their security and mobilize more resources to meet the urgent needs of the affected populations. The situation in the DRC requires concerted action and increased international solidarity to address a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented magnitude.”
This version offers an in-depth analysis of the situation in the DRC, highlighting the urgency of concerted action to support humanitarian actors and meet the needs of vulnerable populations.