Publications:

This briefing details links between cycles of conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and patterns of child recruitment by Mai Mai groups – a collective term referring to a range of local militias in eastern DRC. It argues that Mai Mai militias have been among the most prolific recruiters of children in eastern Congo, and have at times benefitted from the tacit support of the Congolese authorities. It highlights the many abuses suffered by boys and girls within their ranks and draws attention to the underlying causes of children’s association with the Mai Mai, including chronic insecurity which not only justifies the existence of these militias but also prompts many children to join them.

In addition, precarious socio-economic conditions provide children and youth with little in the way of opportunities and alternatives to joining armed groups, while the absence of rule of law means that crimes including child recruitment and use can be committed with virtual impunity. In this context, the briefing argues, reducing the vulnerability of boys and girls to Mai Mai exploitation and eventually ending Mai Mai recruitment and re-recruitment of children will necessitate, inter alia, long-term measures designed to provide children with genuine alternatives to joining militias. The briefing puts forward comprehensive recommendations to Mai Mai militias, the Congolese authorities and the international community to bring about change.