The Republic of Congo has an estimated population of 3.7 million (UN, 2010). The capital is Brazzaville. Congo has an area of 342,000 sq km (132,047 sq miles). The main languages are French, Kongo/Kituba, and Lingala.
Referred as Congo-Brazzaville, the Republic of Congo became independent in 1960. Civil war and militia have inundated the country for many years in part due to the country's offshore oil wealth. Despite the relative calm in the country, there are still many refugees, which present a humanitarian crisis.
Although the status of women has improved in Congo, there are still few women in leadership positions. Women lack access to education, heath care, and other basic amenities. Violence against women and societal discrimination against women remain widespread in the Republic of Congo.