For more than two decades the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has faced chronic violence, mainly in the eastern region, where more than one hundred violent groups and armed militias operate. Fighting across the region has taken a particularly heavy toll on the lives of children- many children have and continue to experience the worst forms of violence and abuse including forced recruitment as child soldiers and gender-based violence. Even once free, former child soldiers and survivors of gender-based violence face significant obstacles when reintegrating to society- without support, many are at risk of being further exploited.

Working under extremely challenging conditions, local children’s rights organisations in the DRC are critical in challenging and transforming violent and unjust practices and structures and condemning perpetuators of violence and abuse against children. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak, local groups are determined to foster lasting social, economic, and political change, and continue to work tirelessly to unite people and mobilise for reforms.

Since 2002, FGHR has worked with over 800 local partners around the world helping to promote human rights, improve people’s lives, and build a better future for their communities. As a result, millions of people across the globe now have access to basic resources and opportunities to participate fully and equally in society. FGHR has supported groups in the DRC for over 15 years.

Project support

The Stanley Thomas Johnson Foundation supports this two years project from 2021 – 2023 with a grant of CHF 120’000.—.

For more information: www.globalhumanrights.org