UNICEF has accused armed men in eastern Congo of committing widespread sexual violence against children amid escalating conflict between M23 rebels and government forces. Reports indicate a significant increase in these abuses, particularly in North and South Kivu provinces, with 572 rape cases reported in just one week, including 170 involving children. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by the rebels’ control over Goma and ongoing investigations into atrocities committed.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has formally accused armed men in eastern Congo of perpetrating extensive sexual violence against children amid escalating conflict dominated by M23 rebels and Congolese government forces. Reports indicate that the frequency and severity of such abuses have sharply risen in the North and South Kivu provinces.
Catherine Russell, UNICEF’s Executive Director, stated, “In the North and South Kivu provinces, we are receiving horrific reports of grave violations against children by parties to the conflict, including rape and other forms of sexual violence at levels surpassing anything we have seen in recent years.” She highlighted the devastating experiences of children targeted in this violence.
UNICEF noted alarming health reports revealing a total of 572 cases of rape following a week of violence from January 27 to February 2, with 170 of these cases involving children. The communication chief for UNICEF in Congo, Lianne Gutcher, expressed uncertainty concerning the specific affiliations of the armed perpetrators, suggesting that all factions involved in the conflict are implicated in these crimes.
The M23 rebels, purportedly backed by Rwanda, have intensified their offensives and took control of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, further complicating the humanitarian situation. Concurrently, the United Nations Human Rights Council has initiated an inquiry into the egregious violations committed by both the M23 rebels and the Congolese military since the start of this year.
Amidst the turmoil, a trial is currently underway in Bukavu for 84 Congolese soldiers facing charges of murder, rape, and other atrocities. In addition, the Health Minister for Congo reported recent concerns of a cholera outbreak amid the rebellion and an escape of patients from hospitals as fighting escalates, further highlighting the humanitarian crisis in the region, where medical aid is urgently needed.
In summary, UNICEF’s accusations of widespread sexual violence against children in eastern Congo underscore the critical humanitarian crisis driven by ongoing hostilities between armed factions. The alarming rise in reported rapes and the involvement of various combatants demonstrate an urgent need for international attention and action. The situation continues to deteriorate as conflict escalates, affecting the well-being and safety of vulnerable populations, particularly children.
Original Source: apnews.com
