Friend,

For years, Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) teams have repeatedly warned of the alarming level of sexual violence in eastern Democractic Republic of Congo (DRC). As the situation worsens, we are doing more to respond.

Our teams on the ground have seen the number of people who’ve experienced sexual violence surge in the past three years. The crisis is especially severe in North Kivu, where MSF teams treated a high number of patients—nearly 40,000—in 2024.

In addition to providing comprehensive medical and psychological care to survivors of sexual violence, we offer preventative treatment against sexually transmitted infections, emergency contraception, vaccines, and safe abortion care.

This crucial response is made possible by our dedicated community of donors. Thank you. Learn how your generous support allows MSF to provide medical care to survivors of sexual violence in DRC.
 

“We receive many women who have been abused in or near host families’ homes or community centers where they are staying,” said François Calas, head of MSF’s program in North Kivu. “Wherever they are, they don't seem to be safe anywhere.”

The situation is even more worrying because access to treatment services is becoming increasingly difficult. “In addition to the disruption of supply chains and the delivery of medicines due to the ongoing conflict, global cuts in humanitarian funding are raising serious concerns about the future,” says François. “Despite the current challenges, we must not abandon these women and children. Their care must be an absolute priority.”

MSF will continue to deliver essentially needed care and call on all stakeholders to do their utmost to further guarantee the protection of civilians and their access to health care. Take a moment to learn more about how your support allows us to provide care in DRC.

Thank you for making this work possible, 

Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières USA