Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Surges in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing a significant escalation in conflict-related sexual violence, particularly in the eastern regions. According to Human Rights Watch and the Congolese women’s rights organization SOFEPADI, the Rwanda-backed M23 and other armed groups, as well as military forces, are using sexual violence as a weapon of war. This surge in violence has been exacerbated by funding cuts and limited access to healthcare services, leaving survivors without the necessary support.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that many clinics offering healthcare and support services have been forced to close due to the conflict. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) reported over 80,000 cases of rape in eastern Congo between January and September 2025, a 32 percent increase from the same period in 2024. The US government’s sudden and chaotic cuts to international aid in early 2025 have halted emergency healthcare and support for thousands of sexual violence survivors.
Survivors of sexual violence in eastern Congo face significant challenges in accessing justice and receiving adequate support. Many have been forced to flee their homes and live in displacement camps, where they are vulnerable to further violence and exploitation. The Congolese military has been implicated in some of the violence, and the government has been criticized for its failure to hold perpetrators accountable.
International partners, including the US and EU, have been urged to increase their support for accountability efforts and to provide more funding for healthcare and support services. The Congolese government has also been called upon to take steps to prevent sexual violence, including enforcing discipline within the military and increasing support for investigations and prosecutions.
The use of sexual violence as a weapon of war is a serious violation of international humanitarian law and human rights law. The Geneva Conventions and customary international law prohibit rape, sexual slavery, and other forms of sexual assault. The Congolese government has ratified several international treaties, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, which prohibits gender-based violence.
In response to the crisis, local organizations have been working to provide support to survivors, including psychological counseling, vocational training, and access to healthcare. However, these efforts are often hindered by limited funding and insecurity in the region. The Congolese government has established a reparations program, FONAREV, to provide financial assistance to survivors of sexual violence and other serious crimes. However, the program has been criticized for allegations of corruption and inefficiency.
The situation in eastern Congo requires urgent attention and action from the international community. The surge in conflict-related sexual violence is a stark reminder of the need for increased support for accountability efforts, healthcare services, and protection for survivors. The Congolese government and international partners must work together to address the root causes of the violence and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
