Child Victims of Sexual Violence in Congo Reach 40 Percent

The ongoing conflict in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to have dire consequences for the local population, particularly among children. Recent reports indicate that approximately 40% of those affected by sexual violence in this area are minors, according to findings from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

Despite a temporary surge in media coverage regarding the advance of the M23 rebel group, attention has waned, yet the humanitarian crisis remains critical. Marcus Bachmann, an MSF representative who recently concluded a mission in the DRC, highlighted the alarming scale of acute malnutrition and the unprecedented number of children experiencing sexual violence.

During a press briefing in Vienna, Bachmann expressed his shock at the levels of violence against children, stating that in his extensive experience working in conflict zones, he had never encountered such a significant number of child victims. MSF has documented over 38,000 survivors of sexual violence treated in its facilities last year, a figure expected to rise in 2025 as many victims remain without access to healthcare.

One of the most pressing issues is the dire nutritional situation exacerbated by ongoing conflict and the economic repercussions of military actions. Children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition. The local health system is overwhelmed and cannot meet the increasing demand for humanitarian aid.

As fighting escalates, MSF has had to limit its services to life-saving medical care. Bachmann condemned the disregard for international humanitarian law by both the Congolese army and the M23 rebels, noting that attacks on healthcare facilities have become common. This has forced countless individuals to flee their homes, with many displaced multiple times within a short period due to the instability.

The M23's capture of the strategic city of Goma has led to mass evacuations, with Bachmann describing how, within weeks, internally displaced persons' camps were emptied as people fled in fear of renewed violence. The M23 has claimed this as a success, suggesting that displaced individuals could return to their villages, a narrative Bachmann criticized as misleading, given the persistent dangers.

Additionally, the impacts of funding cuts from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have raised serious concerns. The DRC relies heavily on U.S. development aid, with nearly 70% of humanitarian funding coming from American sources. The abrupt cessation of 93% of this aid has created a crisis in healthcare provision, forcing MSF facilities to adapt to a sudden influx of patients without additional resources.

Bachmann expressed confusion over the U.S. government's decision to halt the distribution of malaria medications, particularly during the rainy season when malaria cases peak. These medications remain available in the region but are not being distributed, further endangering the health of vulnerable populations.

The situation in the eastern DRC continues to deteriorate, with both local and international organizations calling for increased attention and resources to address the urgent needs of the affected populations, especially children.