African Women and Girls Call for an End to the Conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
As we commemorate 30 years since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and 25 years since the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325—both intended to drive progress on gender equality and women’s rights—the ongoing armed conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stands as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges and the long road ahead. The commitments outlined in these documents remain unfulfilled for the women and girls in Goma, who continue to endure the devastating impacts of war.
As women’s rights organizations, civil society organizations, and African women and girls, we raise our collective voices to urge regional bodies, international actors, the African Union, and African governments to:
- Immediately and urgently cease violent hostilities in the DRC. The continued violence threatens regional stability and undermines the collective aspirations of African unity, peace, and development. We remind all parties of their obligations under the African Union (AU) instruments that uphold peace, security, and stability across the continent. These instruments guide conflict prevention, management, and resolution efforts. The AU Constitutive Act (Article 4 (p) and (e)) affirms the rejection of unconstitutional changes of government and commits to the peaceful resolution of conflicts. The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights emphasizes the right to peace and security as fundamental to human dignity. Furthermore, the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (the Maputo Protocol), in particular Articles 10 and 11 guarantees women’s rights to peace and protection in armed conflict. Moreover, Article 1 of the 1945 United Nations Charter underscores the Security Council’s role as the principal entity in charge of promoting peace and resolving disputes. It places a strong emphasis on preserving world peace and security, fostering friendly relations among nations, and encouraging respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without discrimination. In this regard, we urge all actors to adhere to these principles and take immediate steps toward de-escalation. Additionally, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 emphasizes the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies where citizens should be free from all forms of violence and feel safe as they go about their lives. The Silencing the Guns Initiative under Agenda 2063 calls for a conflict-free Africa and demands immediate action to halt armed confrontations and promote inclusive dialogue. The Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the AU mandates proactive measures to prevent, manage, and resolve conflicts before they escalate into a full-blown crisis.
- We strongly condemn the escalating violence in eastern DRC and call for the immediate protection of civilians, particularly women and children, who are disproportionately affected by the conflict. Women’s bodies remain battlegrounds for war, with rape and sexual violence being systematically used as weapons of control and terror. The loss of lives, destruction of homes, and forced displacement of thousands of families must not be ignored by African Union Member states and the international community.
- We urgently call for the establishment of humanitarian corridors to ensure safe passage for those fleeing the violence and for critical aid to reach affected communities. The deliberate obstruction of humanitarian assistance is a grave violation of human rights and international law. Women and children, who make up the majority of displaced populations, must be prioritized in these interventions, with targeted efforts to address their unique needs.
- Furthermore, we emphasize the need for the resumption of the peace processes. These regional diplomatic efforts are essential in fostering dialogue, securing a ceasefire, and ultimately restoring peace to the region. However, peace negotiations must not continue to sideline women. The exclusion of women from peace processes contradicts the principles of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security. Women’s voices, experiences, and leadership must be central to the resolution of this conflict. Sustainable peace cannot be achieved without women’s active and meaningful participation.
- We call on all parties involved, including regional bodies, international actors, and civil society organizations, to prioritize a gender-responsive approach in all peace and security efforts.
We stand in solidarity with the women and girls of Goma and reaffirm our commitment to amplifying their voices, advocating for their protection, and demanding an end to the cycle of violence that continues to undermine their rights and dignity.
Peace is not a privilege; it is a fundamental human right. Now, more than ever, we must act with urgency and conviction to ensure that the women of Goma, and all those affected by war, can live in a world free from violence, fear, and oppression.
Signed
- The Nawi Afrifem Collective
- Akina Mama wa Afrika
- Solidarity for African Women’s Rights (SOAWR) Coalition