UN Denounces Widespread Sexual Violence Against Children In Eastern DR Congo

UN Denounces Widespread Sexual Violence Against Children In Eastern DR Congo

The United Nations has strongly condemned the alarming rise in sexual violence against children in the conflict-ridden eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where nearly 10,000 cases of rape and sexual assault were reported in the first two months of 2025 alone.

Speaking from Goma during a press briefing in Geneva, James Elder, spokesperson for UNICEF, described the situation as unprecedented, warning that between 35% and 45% of the reported victims are children. “The current rate of sexual violence against children is the highest we have ever seen,” he said. “Preliminary data suggests that during the most intense period of this year’s conflict, a child was raped every 30 minutes…READ MORE…

Eastern DRC has endured prolonged instability, but the situation has deteriorated further due to the resurgence of the M23 rebel group. The international community has accused Rwanda of supporting the group—a claim Kigali continues to deny.

Elder described the violence as not merely a series of isolated incidents but a deeply rooted, systemic crisis. “We are seeing survivors as young as toddlers. This is not random—it is a deliberate weapon of war, intended to terrorize and dismantle communities,” he said.

He emphasized that the figures likely represent only a fraction of the true scale, concealed by fear, social stigma, and lack of access to safe reporting mechanisms. “These revelations should deeply shock the global conscience and compel swift, coordinated action.”

UNICEF has called for urgent interventions, including increased preventive measures, survivor-focused support services, and secure, non-threatening avenues for reporting abuse. Elder concluded by urging the global community not to look away: “Survivors must feel the world stands with them. Justice must be served to the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.”