The humanitarian situation in eastern DRC is deteriorating sharply, following continued attacks by M23 rebels, with significant displacements and an increase in violence and crime. The UN has reported widespread human rights abuses and fatalities among aid workers, emphasizing the urgent need for compliance with international laws to protect civilians. The UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, faces severe limitations in securing stability in affected areas.
The humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is intensifying, with M23 rebel assaults displacing tens of thousands and leading to numerous fatalities, as reported by UN humanitarians. Specifically, in the Lubero Territory near Goma, recent clashes forced over 100,000 individuals, including many children, to flee their homes. Consequently, aid operations have been compromised, with alarming human rights abuses, including incidents of rape, being highlighted by spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.
The situation in North and South Kivu is increasingly dire as M23 rebels expand their control over the region, triggering mass displacements. Goma, in particular, has seen a sharp rise in criminality, such as home invasions, kidnappings, and vehicle hijackings, often targeting humanitarian workers. Reports of similar violent crimes, including looting and sexual violence, have also emerged from South Kivu cities like Bukavu and Uvira.
As humanitarian conditions worsen, the risk to aid workers escalates. Recently, an aid worker was killed by crossfire in Masisi Territory, raising the death toll of aid personnel to six since January. Mr. Dujarric emphasized the need for all conflict parties to comply with international humanitarian and human rights laws to protect vulnerable populations.
The UN peacekeeping force, MONUSCO, indicated that the security situation in territories taken by M23 remains precarious and volatile, with the group advancing toward Lubero. MONUSCO’s operations in these areas are severely hindered, yet the mission continues working to safeguard those seeking refuge within its bases while facilitating their safe relocation from Goma to safer sitess. Medical evacuations, such as the recent move of 19 troops from SAMIDRC, underscore the ongoing challenges faced in this turbulent environment.
The ongoing crisis in eastern DRC exacerbates due to M23 rebel actions, resulting in significant human displacement and a surge in crime. With increasing violence targeting humanitarian efforts, the UN calls for adherence to international law. The situation remains unstable, impeding effective peacekeeping operations, necessitating urgent humanitarian responses and protection for affected populations.
Original Source: news.un.org
