The UK addressed a UN HRC session, highlighting the worsening humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC due to M23 aggression and Rwandan involvement. It condemned the violence, particularly sexual and gender-based crimes, calling for urgent humanitarian action and accountability measures.
In the UK’s statement at the UN Human Rights Council (UN HRC) Special Session, Permanent Representative Simon Manley expressed concern over the prolonged neglect of the humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC. He condemned the recent violent actions by M23 and Rwandan forces which have further deteriorated the situation. The UK urged all factions to ensure safe humanitarian access and called for the reopening of Goma airport without delay.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has faced significant humanitarian challenges, particularly in its eastern regions, where armed conflicts and violence have escalated. The M23 rebel group and involvement of foreign forces, principally Rwanda, have exacerbated these crises. There are alarming reports of gender-based violence against women, underlining the urgent need for international intervention and attention to the human rights situation.
The UK’s statement at the UN HRC highlights the urgent and escalating humanitarian and human rights crises in the DRC, exacerbated by violence and instability. It calls for immediate humanitarian access, accountability for crimes, and a collective international response to alleviate the suffering of affected populations, particularly women. The emphasis on the reopening of Goma airport indicates a critical step towards delivering much-needed aid.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
