At the same time, the government has threatened civil society, media and journalists with tough penalties for reporting on the situation. This has resulted in a lack of reliable information about what is happening, and where, making an already devastating situation even more dangerous, and putting people at further risk.
The DRC has been embroiled in a complicated conflict since 1996. Over 6 million people have been killed and over 7 million displaced. Essential services, including healthcare, sanitation, and education, are critically underfunded, exacerbating the suffering of those already grappling with the consequences of displacement and violence. Women continue to be hardest hit, with some of the highest levels of gender-based and sexual violence in the world further on the rise.
Maria Butler, Executive Director of Nobel Women’s Initiative, emphasizes:
“The people of the DRC are facing today one of the largest internal displacement and humanitarian crises in the world. Preventing journalists and civil society from sharing information endangers more lives. The international community has overlooked the devastation in the DRC for too long. Our humanity should not be determined by headlines. The international community has a responsibility to act.”
International solidarity involves holding all actors accountable and supporting local women's groups. One way individuals can contribute to the efforts today is by donating to the Congolese Women’s Fund.
The growing crisis also demands immediate, robust and ongoing support from the international community. In particular:
-
We urgently appeal to humanitarian relief organizations and donors for increased aid and humanitarian support, with a special focus on the vulnerable situations faced by women and children.
-
We urge the conflicting parties to facilitate the movement of civilians, and grant access to food production sites to ensure the uninterrupted and safe supply of food to the city of Goma.
-
The UN and AU should intensify their efforts in supporting and facilitating peace initiatives in the DRC. A sustainable peace process which meaningfully includes women and young women is crucial for addressing the root causes of the conflict and providing a path toward lasting peace and stability.
-
International organizations including the UN, ICRC, and others should take immediate and decisive measures to protect civilians in the DRC in collaboration with locally led organization.
-
External governments, including Rwanda and Uganda, must immediately cease direct and indirect involvement in the DRC, including halting financial support and sale of weapons to militant groups.
-
International organizations must continue to insist on Rwanda's withdrawal from the ongoing conflict in the DRC and impose necessary sanctions should Rwanda fail to comply.
- All armed groups present in the DRC, including both national and foreign groups, should be urgently demilitarized. Arms should not be sold by any party to the militant groups in the DRC.