D R C
Children without joy and hope in eastern DR Congo
A DESPERATE PLEA FOR CHILDREN IN CONFLICT ZONES
Byolenganya Olo Bernoulli CEO: Community Support Center
Conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo date back decades, resulting in massive deaths and displacements that make living conditions very difficult. The most vulnerable are children. Many of these children are survivors of war and ethnic conflicts. Forced to fend for themselves, they walk long distances to find food, are recruited as child workers in dangerous mine squares, or become child soldiers, all in a desperate attempt to survive. The tears flow morning, noon, and evening in memory of their parents and loved ones. They lead a street life and spend nights along the way in canvases, bars, and sheds, and they have no access to education due to the living conditions of their families. They lead a life of mediocrity because they do not benefit from children's rights. The children somehow manage to regain their survival because most are orphans. Humanitarian organisations are involved in ensuring that these children become integrated into society, but the supply is less than the demand. Some local organisations are initiating a de-traumatisation and peacebuilding approach through sports but more efforts and support are needed. International, national, and local organisations should be supported financially to carry out their actions in the field and find ways to ease the precarious life experienced by vulnerable children around the world, particularly in conflict zones.
June 2023 | Collective Action Magazine
119
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