Why Has the UN Rights Chief Condemned Attacks on Civilians in Congo?
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Synopsis
The UN's High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has condemned the increase in violence against civilians in eastern DRC. This alarming situation has resulted in hundreds of deaths among local farmers, prompting urgent calls for accountability and protection under international law. Discover more about the ongoing conflict and its humanitarian implications.
Key Takeaways
- Over 300 civilians have been killed in recent attacks by M23 in eastern DRC.
- The UN has called for immediate cessation of attacks against civilians.
- Accountability for perpetrators of violence is essential.
- International humanitarian law must be upheld by all conflict parties.
- Dialogue and peace commitments are crucial for ending the violence.
Geneva, Aug 7 (NationPress) The United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has expressed his strong condemnation regarding the alarming rise in lethal assaults by the March 23 Movement (M23) and other militant factions targeting civilians in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during the past month.
Reports received by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) indicate that between July 9 and 21, at least 319 civilians lost their lives due to the actions of the M23 in four villages across the Rutshuru territory in North Kivu Province. The majority of those killed were local farmers, including at least 48 women and 19 children, who were camping in their fields amid the planting season.
The OHCHR has also recorded numerous attacks on civilians perpetrated by other armed groups in the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri throughout July, as reported by Xinhua.
In a statement, Turk expressed he was “appalled” by these assaults, emphasizing that “all attacks against civilians must cease immediately, and those accountable must face justice.”
He reiterated his call for all conflicting parties in eastern DRC to prioritize civilian safety and adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
Furthermore, he urged all parties involved in the recently established declaration of principles to genuinely commit to the peace process and take decisive actions to terminate the cycles of ongoing violence.
The M23 rebel faction announced on July 26 that the release of over 700 detainees linked to the conflict is essential for any future discussions with the DRC government.
Benjamin Mbonimpa, M23's spokesperson in multiple discussions with Kinshasa in Doha, made these comments during a press conference in Goma, the capital of North Kivu Province, currently under M23 control since late January.
On July 19, the DRC government and M23 signed a declaration of principles in Doha aimed at resolving the conflict in the eastern region of the country.
“It was in Doha where the guidelines were set in the declaration of principles. The execution of that declaration was to precede negotiations,” Mbonimpa stated. “If no action is taken within the specified timeframe, and if Kinshasa does not release our detainees by July 27, we will have no reason to return to Doha.”
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight that the ongoing violence in eastern DRC is not just a national issue but a humanitarian crisis that demands immediate international attention. The UN's condemnation underscores the necessity for all parties involved to prioritize civilian safety and adhere to international laws, showcasing our commitment to humanity's core values.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the March 23 Movement (M23)?
The March 23 Movement (M23) is a rebel group in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo that has been involved in various conflicts since its formation. It emerged from earlier conflicts and has been accused of numerous human rights violations.
What has prompted the UN's condemnation?
The UN's condemnation is primarily due to the recent escalation of attacks against civilians by M23 and other armed groups in eastern DRC, resulting in significant civilian casualties.
What is the significance of the declaration of principles signed in Doha?
The declaration of principles signed in Doha aims to establish a framework for peace and conflict resolution in eastern DRC, emphasizing the need for dialogue and the protection of civilians.
What role does the international community play?
The international community is urged to support the peace process, hold violators accountable, and ensure adherence to international humanitarian laws to protect civilians.
How can civilians in the affected areas be protected?
Protection of civilians requires immediate action from conflict parties to cease hostilities, adherence to international laws, and proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable populations.
