Death toll in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where a camp for displaced people was attacked in the province of Ituri, causing the death of at least 45 people, nearly half of whom are children. The attack, which took place on the night of June 12, 2023, also led to the burning of over 800 shelters and the theft of livestock. UNICEF, concerned about the safety and protection of children, is working to meet the humanitarian needs of displaced people and host communities in the region. According to the Organization, more than 5,000 children were affected by the attack, losing their parents, their belongings and their school supplies.
Unfortunately, this attack is not an isolated case in the DRC. The conflict in Ituri has existed since 2017, but it has taken a dramatic turn this year, with armed groups attacking civilians, schools and hospitals. According to the United Nations, in the last six months, approximately 600 civilians have been killed and more than 200 have been injured, making Ituri the second province with the highest number of verified serious violations.
The government is called upon to act, in particular by arresting the aggressors and by strengthening the protection of children and their families. Humanitarian organizations, meanwhile, continue to provide support to the victims of the war in the DRC, despite the challenges of insecurity and lack of funding.
In short, the situation in the DRC is still worrying, despite the efforts of humanitarian actors to meet the needs of the population. It is imperative that the authorities take action to end the violence and protect civilians, especially children, who are paying a heavy price in this conflict.