Ebola response in DRC faces violence and abuse prevention challenges

Humanitarian organizations are warning that increasing violence against health workers and infrastructure is undermining the Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In the first 100 days of the outbreak, twelve Red Cross volunteers were injured during eleven separate violent incidents. Attacks have included the vandalism and burning of ambulances, the destruction of emergency medical equipment, and assaults on personnel in provinces such as North Kivu, Haut-Uélé, and Ituri.

In addition to physical security threats, health authorities are addressing ethical risks within the response. The National Institute of Public Health (INSP), supported by UNICEF, has launched initiatives in Haut-Uélé to prevent sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (PEAHS). Training sessions are being provided to responders across six affected health zones to establish a zero-tolerance policy and ensure that medical interventions remain ethical and respectful of community dignity.