Principals of the Inter-Agency Standing Committee Issue Statement on the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing a dire humanitarian crisis in its eastern region, with escalating conflict leading to record levels of gender-based violence, displacement, and hunger. More than 700,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in the last few months, bringing the total number of displaced people to a staggering 7.2 million.

The situation is exacerbated by a severe lack of funding for humanitarian aid, with only 16 percent of the $2.6 billion needed for this year’s response plan being received. This shortfall means that millions of people are not receiving the lifesaving support they desperately need.

Women and girls are particularly vulnerable in this crisis, facing increased risks of sexual violence and exploitation. Many are forced to exchange sex for survival and support for their families, while others are exposed to violence when venturing outside displacement camps.

Gender-based violence has reached unprecedented levels, with cases surging between 2022 and 2023. Survivors often do not come forward due to stigma and fear of retaliation. Children are also at risk of abduction, killing, and recruitment by armed groups.

More than 25 million people in the DRC are facing food insecurity, with cholera and measles spreading rapidly. The country is also grappling with climate extremes worsened by El Niño.

Addressing the root causes of the crisis, including conflict, exploitation of natural resources, and gender inequality, is crucial to bringing an end to the suffering in the DRC. The international community must step up its support for the Congolese people, particularly women and girls, and mobilize additional resources for the humanitarian response. It is imperative to hold perpetrators of human rights violations accountable and work towards ending the violence once and for all.