In the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the situation of women in displaced persons camps is causing great concern. According to Doctors Without Borders (MSF), the number of reported sexual assaults has increased significantly in recent weeks. On average, 70 women present to MSF facilities in Goma every day following sexual assault. This alarming situation highlights the precarious living conditions of the displaced and underlines the urgency of intervening to ensure their protection.
According to Rasmané Kaboré, MSF emergency coordinator in Goma, sexual assaults are the result of insufficient aid provided to the displaced. Needs for food, shelter and protection are not adequately met, exposing women to malicious people. The camps, located in remote areas and lacking protection, leave women vulnerable when they have to venture into the woods to search for firewood or to meet their daily needs.
The situation is intolerable and requires rapid and coordinated intervention. MSF is calling on donors, humanitarian actors and authorities to redouble their efforts to meet the needs of the displaced. MSF’s action alone is not enough to resolve this crisis, and it is essential that all actors involved mobilize to reduce women’s exposure to this violence.
It is crucial to put in place adequate protection measures, strengthen camp surveillance and improve the living conditions of the displaced. This includes providing sufficient food, safe housing and accessible health services. Additionally, efforts must be made to educate communities about women’s rights and combat the culture of silence that often surrounds sexual assault.
It is time to act and give women in displaced persons camps in the DRC the safety and dignity they deserve. Protecting women’s rights must be a top priority, in order to end this spiral of violence and help them rebuild their lives after traumatic experiences.