June 19 is the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict—a global call to confront one of war’s most brutal and under-addressed weapons: rape.

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, sexual violence has been used for decades as a military tactic—to terrorize civilians, fracture communities, and silence resistance. Today, in North Kivu, the threat is rising again as armed conflict escalates and humanitarian conditions worsen. That’s why Frontline Women’s Fund supports Synergie des Femmes pour les Victimes des Violences Sexuelles (SFVS) and its courageous founder, Justine Masika Bihamba. Based in Goma, SFVS works on the frontlines to support survivors of wartime rape.

For over 20 years, Justine and her team have provided medical care, counseling, shelter, legal aid, and economic support to thousands. Their work goes beyond survival—they fight for justice and structural change.

But they can’t do it alone.

Groups like SFVS are doing life-saving work—yet remain chronically underfunded. These are the women protecting others with few resources and little recognition.

Watch Justine’s story

As we mark this day, let’s move beyond awareness—and into action. Stand with survivors. Fund the frontline.
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