Alarming Surge in Child Sexual Violence in DR Congo: UNICEF
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Synopsis
On April 12, UNICEF reported that a child is raped every 30 minutes amid the escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The agency highlights that children account for a significant portion of sexual violence cases, calling for urgent international action.
Key Takeaways
- One child raped every 30 minutes in DRC.
- Children account for 35-45% of sexual violence cases.
- Systemic crisis affecting families and communities.
- Need for urgent international response.
- Survivors require support and justice.
United Nations, April 12 (NationPress) An average of one child is reported to have been raped every 30 minutes amid the intense conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during January and February, according to the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF).
UNICEF disclosed on Friday that children account for between 35 to 45 percent of nearly 10,000 recorded cases of rape and sexual violence during these two months, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
During the peak of this year’s conflict in eastern DRC, UNICEF spokesperson James Elder informed reporters at a UN briefing in Geneva that a child was subjected to rape every half hour.
“This is not merely about isolated incidents; it represents a systemic crisis. We are witnessing survivors as young as toddlers. It has become a weapon of war and a calculated tactic of terror, devastating families and communities,” Elder stated.
The reported figures may only reflect the tip of the iceberg as many incidents of such crimes may be concealed due to fear, stigma, and insecurity, he added.
Elder urged the global community to undertake immediate and collective measures against sexual violence. “We require enhanced prevention efforts, survivor-centered services, and safe, accessible means for survivors to report abuse without fear. Survivors need to feel supported by the world, not abandoned. Perpetrators must be brought to justice,” he emphasized.
