Escalating Violence in Eastern Congo: UN Urges End to Abuses by M23 and Rwanda
In a statement released from its headquarters in Geneva, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR) has raised grave concerns over the escalating violence and human rights abuses targeting civilians in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The UNHCR has condemned the violent actions perpetrated by the M23 rebel group and the government of Rwanda, urging both parties to cease their offensive and adhere to international humanitarian law.
Dire Humanitarian Situation
The worsening situation in eastern Congo has led to widespread displacement of civilians, with many fleeing their homes in fear of violence. The UNHCR has documented numerous human rights violations committed against civilians, including extrajudicial killings, sexual and gender-based violence, and attacks on hospitals and displacement camps.
M23 Atrocities and Forced Displacement
The M23, a rebel group operating in eastern Congo, has been accused of committing serious human rights abuses, including summary executions of civilians, including children, and sexual violence. The UN has also recorded instances of arbitrary arrests, detention, and ill-treatment of young Congolese males during their flight from the conflict.
Government Troop Movements and Clashes
In recent days, government troops have clashed with local militias south of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. The government forces were ordered to withdraw from Bukavu to prevent further confrontations with the M23 in urban areas. However, the retreat has been chaotic, following the M23’s capture of the city’s airport and subsequent advance into Bukavu.
M23 Advance and Control over Territory
After weeks of fighting against the Congolese army, the M23 now controls vast portions of North Kivu province and has extended its offensive into South Kivu, according to the UN. The rebel group previously seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu, leading to over 2,900 deaths despite a unilateral ceasefire declared by the M23. The conflict is driven by various factors, including control over mineral resources, with neighboring Rwanda accused of supporting the M23.
International Condemnation and Calls for Accountability
The UN statement strongly condemns the ongoing violence and human rights abuses in eastern Congo. The High Commissioner for Human Rights has called on the M23 and Rwanda to end their violent campaign against civilians and respect international law.
"The protection of civilians must be paramount," the UN statement emphasized. "The violence must stop immediately, or the conflict risks escalating further."
The UN has also urged the international community to take action to address the humanitarian crisis and to hold those responsible for human rights abuses accountable.
