DR Congo Faces Shocking Surge in Child Abuse as Violence Spirals
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is heading for a horrifying third year of record-breaking child abuse in 2023. Verified grave violations against children like killing, maiming, and abduction are soaring amid brutal violence and widespread displacement.
Violence Against Kids Rockets by 41%
New data reveals a 41% jump in verified child rights violations in the first half of 2023 compared to last year. Recruitment of children by armed groups surged 45%, while cases of killing and maiming shot up 32%. Reports of rape, sexual violence and abductions are also ticking upwards.
UNICEF Sounds Alarm During Week-Long Visit
“The atrocities against children are intensifying. The government and partners must urgently step up to protect vulnerable kids,” said Sheema Sen Gupta, UNICEF’s Director of Child Protection, after a mission to the DRC.
Millions Displaced Amid Rising Chaos
- Since October 2022, violence has forced 1.5 million people to flee eastern DRC.
- Total displacement now hits a staggering 6.1 million.
- UNICEF has provided critical mental health support to over 100,000 children and aided 6,300+ survivors of gender-based violence.
- Yet, UNICEF has received just 11% of needed funds for its child protection programs, leaving many vulnerable without help.
The crisis shows no sign of easing, putting millions of innocent children in harm’s way as armed groups close in on communities across the troubled region.
