Key findings of the investigation into the sexual exploitation of women and girls in brothels in North Kivu – Democratic Republic of Congo

CONTEXT

For decades, the eastern region of the DRC has been struggling with conflicts and natural disasters that continue to increase the vulnerability of the population, particularly women and girls. Insecurity caused by armed and/or intercommunal conflicts, population displacements and the resulting collapse of community protection mechanisms exacerbate the risk factors for sexual and gender-based violence in the province of North Kivu, particularly in the areas of Nyiragongo, Rutshuru, Masisi, Béni, Lubero and the city of Goma.

In the first quarter of 2024, 14,658 GBV survivors in North Kivu province alone benefited from essential services (medical, psychosocial, economic reintegration and/or legal assistance).

USE OF NEGATIVE COPING STRATEGIES AND GBV RISK FACTORS

In addition to exacerbating GBV risk factors related to insecurity, inadequate humanitarian assistance, lack of economic resilience mechanisms, and funding gaps for socio-economic and educational reintegration for GBV survivors, many women and girls increasingly adopt negative coping strategies such as survival sex, early and/or forced marriage, and sexual exploitation in brothels. These coping mechanisms increase the exposure of these women and girls to various types of GBV, including rape, sexual violence, physical violence, psychological violence, and denial of resources and opportunities.