Escalating conflict in eastern DR Congo has displaced nearly 80,000 people into neighboring countries, with reports of over 800 rapes in just two weeks. Severe violence, including looting and destruction, characterizes the situation. The UNHCR emphasizes the urgent need for humanitarian intervention and assistance.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, forcing nearly 80,000 individuals to seek refuge in neighboring countries, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This violence, especially noted between the Congolese army and M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, has escalated the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) as severe human rights violations have surged.
In recent reports, over 800 cases of rape have been documented within just a two-week period in late February. Alongside sexual violence, abuses such as looting and the destruction of homes and businesses have been noted, particularly near conflict frontlines, further exacerbating the conditions for civilians caught in the crossfire.
Patrick Eba, UNHCR’s Deputy Director, stated that around 17,000 IDPs currently inhabit temporary sites, schools, and churches in Goma. However, approximately 414,000 individuals have been displaced from their homes over the past month due to pressures from local authorities encouraging them to return to their villages, despite the persistent violence. Eba indicated that the ongoing crisis might result in even more people fleeing across the borders in search of safety.
The situation indicates a dire need for intervention and assistance, reflected in the UNHCR’s recent appeal to address the escalating humanitarian crisis. The displacement caused by fighting not only impacts these individuals but also places strain on neighboring countries as they absorb the influx of refugees fleeing violence and seeking protection.
In summary, the violence in eastern DRC has initiated a significant exodus of nearly 80,000 refugees as ongoing conflicts continue to escalate. Reports of widespread sexual violence, looting, and destruction highlight the severe human rights abuses affecting civilians. The UNHCR’s appeal underscores the urgent need to address this crisis and provide support for those displaced as well as those in neighboring countries.
Original Source: allafrica.com
