A recent court decision in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) marks a breakthrough for survivors of wartime sexual violence, holding perpetrators accountable for crimes committed during ongoing regional conflicts. The ruling is being hailed by the United Nations and other human rights organizations as a major precedent in the fight against impunity for gender-based crimes in the DRC. The case, tried in a military court, involved convictions for acts of sexual violence committed against women and girls by armed groups. Observers emphasize that this decision represents a step forward for justice and could strengthen legal protections for women in conflict zones where sexual violence has long been used as a weapon of war.
Compiled From: Equality Now, “Landmark ruling finally brings justice for survivors of wartime sexual violence in DRC,” ReliefWeb, Oct. 6, 2025.