UN officials underscore an escalating humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC due to intensified conflicts led by M23 rebels. Aid access remains critical as civilians are increasingly displaced, with urgent appeals for support and adherence to international law regarding displaced persons. The conflict has already uprooted millions, necessitating immediate action to prevent further humanitarian degradation.
As the UN Security Council prepares for discussions on the escalating crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the UN humanitarian coordinator, Bruno Lemarquis, emphasized the urgent need for all combatants to facilitate humanitarian aid. The ongoing conflict, especially in South Kivu province, is causing significant hardship for civilians, prompting Lemarquis to stress that the population can no longer bear such brutal consequences.
With advancing forces of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, many civilians are fleeing conflict-affected areas. Just recently, Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC, fell into the hands of the rebels, deepening the humanitarian emergency as Lemarquis called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the resumption of dialogue.
The security situation remains precarious in Bukavu, where recent reports indicate looting of warehouses storing essential supplies. Despite challenges, some humanitarian assessments resumed as efforts are made to aid displaced persons sheltering in local churches and community centers. Furthermore, the opening of airports for humanitarian flights in both Goma and Kavumu is critical for delivering assistance.
Lemarquis also highlighted the importance of adhering to international laws regarding the treatment of internally displaced persons. He criticized a recent ultimatum from M23 representatives demanding IDPs to return to their villages, stating, “Any return can only take place on a voluntary basis, under safe, dignified, and sustainable conditions.”
The UN coordinator reiterated that the primary mission of relief teams is to provide necessary aid while adhering to humanitarian principles like neutrality and impartiality in their work. The ongoing crisis in the DRC, marked by prolonged conflict and human rights abuses, continues to produce staggering humanitarian needs affecting millions.
Overall, the current humanitarian dilemma has displaced seven million people within the DRC, with over one million seeking refuge in neighboring countries. One recent surge saw 10,000 to 15,000 individuals fleeing to Burundi in just a few days, intensifying the call for immediate support and cessation of violence in the region.
The situation in eastern DRC requires urgent attention as humanitarian needs grow amid ongoing conflict. UN officials are calling for respect for international laws regarding displaced persons and the establishment of safe humanitarian corridors. With significant displacement and escalating tensions, coordinated international support is vital to alleviate suffering in the region and prevent further destabilization.
Original Source: news.un.org
