DR Congo, Somalia top cases of conflict-related sexual violence – UN report

UN Report Highlights Surge in Conflict-Related Sexual Violence

Cases in DR Congo and Somalia rank among the highest globally as armed conflicts fuel human rights abuses.

Sharp Rise in Cases

A new United Nations report has revealed a troubling 25% increase in conflict-related sexual violence cases reported in 2024 compared to the previous year. The findings underscore the growing vulnerability of civilians, particularly women and children, in areas plagued by armed conflict.

Countries Most Affected

According to UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, the highest number of reported cases came from the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Haiti, Somalia, and South Sudan. These nations, already dealing with severe insecurity, have witnessed widespread and systematic abuse against civilians.

Perpetrators Named

The report lists 63 state and non-state entities suspected of being responsible for repeated acts of rape and other sexual violence in conflict zones. These include armed groups, rebel factions, and elements within national militaries. The Security Council is set to review these findings as part of its ongoing monitoring of crimes in armed conflict.

Alarming Figures from Eastern DRC

In the volatile Kivu region of eastern DRC, the situation is especially dire. The report states that more than 17,000 victims of sexual violence were treated by health workers in just five months last year. This spike coincided with intensified fighting between Congolese forces and M23 rebels, which has displaced thousands and increased civilian suffering.

Nature of the Crimes

The documented abuses include rape, gang rape, and sexual slavery — crimes that not only devastate individuals but also tear apart families and communities. Victims often face long-term trauma, stigmatization, and a lack of access to adequate medical or psychological care.

Call for Global Action

The UN report emphasizes the urgent need for stronger accountability mechanisms, better protection for civilians, and more resources for survivor support services. It also calls on both state and non-state actors to comply with international humanitarian law and to end the use of sexual violence as a tactic of war.

Security Council Involvement

With the issue on the Security Council’s agenda, member states are expected to discuss possible sanctions, targeted measures, and diplomatic pressure on listed parties. The Council has repeatedly condemned conflict-related sexual violence, but implementation of its resolutions remains inconsistent.

The Humanitarian Challenge

Human rights organizations stress that addressing sexual violence in conflict zones requires more than just condemnation. It involves providing long-term care for survivors, prosecuting perpetrators, and addressing the root causes of conflict that enable such crimes to occur.

Outlook and Ongoing Concerns

While the UN continues to monitor these cases, there are fears that the real figures could be far higher due to underreporting, cultural stigma, and fear of retaliation. Without urgent action, the cycle of violence risks deepening, leaving survivors without justice and communities without healing.

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