UNICEF has issued an urgent plea for action in response to a concerning rise in sexual violence against girls and women in North Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). 

Reports indicate a 37% increase in gender-based violence during the first three months of 2023 compared to the previous year. 

The situation is particularly dire for the over 1.16 million people displaced by conflict in the region, with overcrowded sites posing significant risks. 

Many survivors reported being attacked by armed and displaced men in and around camps. UNICEF also warns about high levels of sexual exploitation of children at more than 1,000 sites.

UNICEF is providing medical, psychosocial, and protective services. They also have called for expanded interventions, an end to exploitation, and increased donor assistance to improve living conditions, healthcare, and education for the affected population.