Congo-Kinshasa: Sexual Violence Systematically Used As a Weapon of War in the DR Congo

The conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is worsening. Women and children are facing increased risks of sexual violence.

Senior UN officials warned that all parties are using sexual violence as a tactic of war. This violence is directed at civilians.

In eastern DRC, attacks by armed groups are rising sharply. These attacks mainly target women and children.

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels took control of key cities like Goma and Bukavu earlier this year. This has deepened chaos in an already unstable region rich in minerals.

UN peacekeepers are present to protect civilians and aid delivery. However, the situation for women and children continues to deteriorate, according to UN officials.

Children face severe human rights violations, including recruitment by armed groups. They also face threats of sexual violence.

Local militias have forced young girls into early marriages. Since February, at least nine girls have been reported forced into marriage, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).