Rising Violence in Eastern DRC
United Nations agencies have raised urgent alarms over escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly as conflicts intensify between government forces and the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group. Reports indicate that the rebels have captured Goma, the provincial capital, and are threatening to overtake Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, leaving civilians in peril amidst a violent backdrop.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
According to humanitarian officials, the situation is deteriorating rapidly for civilians caught in intense fighting. With Goma’s population exceeding one million, many displacement camps are now empty as residents flee. Medical resources are overwhelmed, struggling to care for the many injured, both civilians and combatants, as crucial supplies dwindle, creating a critical need for assistance.
Critical Shortages Reported
The World Food Programme (WFP) has highlighted alarming deficiencies in food and water supplies, emphasizing that immediate aid is essential. WFP Spokesperson Shelley Thakral stated, “People are really running out of food, clean water, medical supplies and that’s a big concern.” Several WFP warehouses have been looted, complicating their ability to restore aid supplies in the region.
Human Rights Violations Abound
As reported by the UN Human Rights Office, the risk of summary executions and sexual violence continues to rise. Between January 26 and 28, at least 12 individuals were executed by M23 forces, and disturbing reports have surfaced of conflict-related sexual assaults involving both Congolese troops and rebels, exacerbating the ongoing human rights crisis.
Call for Immediate Action
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has underscored the urgent need for global attention on the unfolding humanitarian disaster, calling for an immediate halt to hostilities and increased humanitarian access. IOM Director General Amy Pope expressed that “with the current alarming upsurge in fighting, an already dire situation is rapidly becoming very much worse.”
War’s Deadly Toll
Assessment reports indicate that around 700 individuals have lost their lives due to the violence, with 2,800 injuries treated in health facilities. Both the World Health Organization and the UN aid coordination office emphasize that conditions remain dire, with disease outbreaks looming if overwhelming assistance does not materialize soon. Cholera and Mpox pose significant threats to displaced populations, making immediate humanitarian action a necessity.
UN agencies warn of a humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC as fighting escalates between government forces and M23 rebels. Goma is under siege, critical supplies are dwindling, and violence against civilians is rampant. IOM calls for global recognition of the crisis and a ceasefire, as humanitarian needs soar amid significant casualties and threats of disease outbreaks.
The humanitarian and human rights crises in eastern DRC are worsening amid intensifying conflict. UN agencies emphasize critical shortages of supplies and escalating violence against civilians. Immediate global support is crucial to halt hostilities and provide essential aid. As the situation deteriorates, the plight of those affected worsens, highlighting the urgent need for action and support mechanisms.
Original Source: news.un.org
