Sexual violence surges in Congo's humanitarian crisis

Sexual violence against women and girls in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has jumped by nearly a third compared to last year, UN reported. Shoko Arakaki, humanitarian director at United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the UN’s reproductive health agency, made the stark assessment after visiting Kinshasa and Goma, where she saw how essential services are collapsing just as attacks escalate.

The numbers paint a grim picture. Three women die every hour from pregnancy and birth complications. Rape and conflict-related sexual violence continue to climb. Women and girls face exploitation and abuse in displacement camps, while traveling, and even in their own communities.

During her visit, Arakaki met midwives delivering babies under extreme conditions and mothers who had lost everything. She spoke with a 14-year-old girl recovering from surgery after surviving multiple rapes. The girl still dreams of going back to school. “Congolese women and girls endure tremendous suffering but never give up on their hope,” Arakaki said.

The DRC remains one of the world’s most neglected humanitarian emergencies. About 27 million people will need aid this year. Overcrowded displacement camps lack basic protection, leaving residents vulnerable to sexual exploitation and abuse. Hunger is widespread. Jobs are scarce. And the fighting in eastern provinces shows no signs of stopping.

UNFPA is trying to reach 1.4 million women and girls with health services, including medical treatment and psychological support for survivors. But the agency urgently needs more funding to keep up with demand. UNFPA also called on armed groups to protect civilians and health facilities, and to allow humanitarian workers safe access to people who need help.