Attachments
Introduction
This report is a product of the protection department of DRC Buea through protection monitoring primary data and secondary data from OCHA Cameroon sitreps and feedback from the GBV and CP AoR covers the period January to December 2023.
Key highlights of 2023
• Increased Insecurity and Violence: The region experienced multiple attacks and lockdowns by Non-State Armed Groups (NSAGs), which led to casualties, injuries, and displacement. Major incidents included the February attack on CDC workers and the September lockdown affecting education. Overall, 206 protection incidents affecting 1,526 people were reported, including killings, arbitrary arrests, abductions, and physical assaults.
• Child Protection Concerns: Child labor remained the predominant child protection issue, driven by school disruptions, economic hardship, and community breakdown. Child neglect, physical violence, and exposure to substance abuse were also reported, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. DRC's response included community-led awareness programs and positive parenting training.
• Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Crisis: GBV, especially domestic violence and sexual violence, remained a significant issue. Access to support services for women and girls was limited, with gaps in medical, legal, and psychosocial support. There was a decline in the perception of safety among women, and a rising number of women declined help due to stigma and lack of awareness.
• Civil Documentation Issues: While 75% of household heads had civil documentation, the remaining 25% struggled with obtaining ID cards due to financial barriers, lack of supporting documents, and distant registration centers. The absence of these documents led to arrests and detentions, further complicating the lives of civilians in the region.
• Priority Humanitarian Needs: The key needs identified were medical care for victims of human right violations, food, and education, food access was hindered by insecurity, and schools, particularly government schools, remained closed. At the household level, sleeping materials, kitchen utensils, and building materials were urgently needed due to forceful displacement and poor living conditions.