** Sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo: an alarming humanitarian crisis **
The extent of sexual violence, particularly against children in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), recently led UNICEF to sound the alarm. In its press release of April 11, UNICEF describes an unprecedented situation, where rape is used as a weapon of war in a context of resurgence of armed conflicts, mainly in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. The report stipulates that almost half of the 10,000 cases of rape and sexual violence recorded between January and February 2025 receive children, a figure which calls for a collective reflection on the protective and aid structures available for this vulnerable population.
### A context of persistent violence
This resurgence of violence in eastern DRC cannot be considered without a careful examination of the region’s historical and geopolitical dynamics. Armed conflicts, which have intensified for several years, are often powered by a variety of factors, both internal and external. Ethnic tensions, the struggles for resource control, as well as the interference of external actors, in particular Rwanda which would support the rebellious M23/AFC movement, exacerbate the situation.
It is in this troubled context that sexual violence has gained an alarming magnitude. The use of rape as a weapon of war is a cruel strategy that aims to destroy community ties, to instill fear, and to mark the victims in a physical and psychological way. UNICEF underlines the systematic nature of these abuses, which raises the question of the ineffectiveness of the protective measures of civilians already in place.
### Degradation of the humanitarian situation
The degradation of the humanitarian situation in eastern DRC is not limited to sexual violence. Prolonged conflicts have caused massive displacements of populations, growing poverty, and the destruction of essential infrastructure. UNICEF, due to its mandate, is on the front line to respond to emergencies, but recent statistics highlight the insufficiency of an answer that must be up to the challenges.
With talks launched in Doha between the authorities of Kinshasa and the M23, it is legitimate to question the possibility of a sustainable conflict resolution. Discussions, although promising in terms of diplomacy, must evolve towards concrete actions which take into account not only the military aspect, but also the rights of civilians, in particular children threatened by unacceptable violations of international humanitarian law.
### towards a necessary protection of children
UNICEF’s urgent call to urgent children’s protection measures is an imperative that deserves to be heard. The response to this crisis requires an integrated approach, involving both national authorities and the international community. The implementation of awareness -raising, peace education and psychosocial assistance programs is essential to help victims rebuild themselves and to prevent future engagement in cycles of violence.
The commitment of neighboring countries, including Rwanda, is also crucial to achieving lasting peace in the region. Regional security and intelligence cooperation can help reduce the impact of armed groups, but that should not be done to the detriment of human rights respect.
### Conclusion
The current situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo is tragic and complex. If UNICEF and other humanitarian organizations play a vital role in the emergency response, it is imperative that diplomatic efforts are accompanied by tangible results in the protection of children’s rights. Sexual violence inflicted on this vulnerable population must serve as a catalyst for significant changes in the way conflicts are managed and resolved.
While peace discussions continue in Doha, it is essential to keep in mind that every day that passes, children continue to suffer. The international community has a shared responsibility: to put an end to this violence and work for a future where children of the DRC can grow safely, without fear of violence. By reflecting on these issues, we can hope to contribute to a constructive dialogue, carrying a positive and lasting change.