Women's Refugee Commission urges government of Democratic Republic of Congo to ensure security of women forced from IDP camps

The Women's Refugee Commission is deeply troubled by the forced dispersal of 2,300 people living in the Kiwanja IDP camp in Rutshuru by the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The eviction of displaced persons and subsequent burning of their makeshift shelters is against international law and is ethically unconscionable. Forcing women and girls, in particular, to leave before they can return home exposes them to increased risks of physical and sexual violence, negating all the work that has been done by humanitarian organizations to protect them after they fled violence and conflict. We urge the government to consider the consequences and work with local and international organizations to ensure the security and well-being of these women and girls.