In a grave report from Human Rights Watch, the M23 armed group, allegedly backed by Rwanda, has expelled tens of thousands of displaced people from the camps near Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo. After the M23’s takeover of Goma on January 27, 2025, many locals faced dire conditions and scarce humanitarian assistance. They were given just 72 hours to vacate solidifying their vulnerable status amidst ongoing conflict.
On February 9, M23 officials informed camp leaders near Goma’s Bulengo and Lushagala camps, hosting over 100,000 people, to evacuate. This forced and unlawful displacement violates international law, only permissible under strict security or military necessity. Clémentine de Montjoye, a senior Africa researcher for Human Rights Watch, remarked on the severity of the situation, urging countries influencing the M23 to intervene.
Interviews conducted by Human Rights Watch revealed residents could not simply return home. Many were homeless, disabled, had large families, or lacked the resources for the journey. Aid workers reported looting in the Lushagala camp and the removal of humanitarian support, exacerbating the crisis.
Displaced people shared their fears about the M23’s forced removals which echoed the group’s previous conduct elsewhere. A witness relayed that M23 members stood by as the Lushagala extension camp was dismantled, indicating a disconcerting indifference. Additionally, reports emerged of forced evacuations in Minova, leading many residents to abandon their camps.
By February 11, it became evident that most camps had either been emptied or destroyed. Many displaced individuals sought shelter with local residents or moved into crowded sites in Goma. The AFC, a coalition including the M23, claimed that internally displaced persons were returning to their homes voluntarily, without pressure—a statement disputed by many residents.
Human Rights Watch communicated with the AFC to gather insights on the proposed orders for camp evacuations but had not received a response. The ongoing conflict not only jeopardises civilians but disrupts humanitarian aid efforts significantly in North and South Kivu provinces. Goma’s airport closure has halted crucial aid supplies, further straining the already precarious situation.
Displaced residents cited their unprepared fields, the destruction of essential services, and safety concerns as significant barriers to returning. There were urgent calls for the M23 and Rwandan forces controlling Goma to respect civilians’ rights, ensure humanitarian access, and provide essential services like food, water, and medical aid.
Urgently, international bodies must mobilise support for vulnerable populations, putting pressure on Rwanda and the M23 to adhere to international humanitarian obligations. De Montjoye emphasised the critical need for these parties to cease unlawful civilian displacements and restore access to humanitarian aid.
The M23 armed group has unlawfully displaced tens of thousands of individuals from camps around Goma, DR Congo, with just 72 hours’ notice. Human Rights Watch warns this action violates international law. Many displaced residents face extreme hardship and lack resources for safe return, while the humanitarian crisis is worsened by the closure of aid pathways. International pressure is necessary to uphold civilian rights and restore vital humanitarian aid.
The situation in eastern DRC remains dire as the M23 armed group continues its illegal expulsions of displaced individuals from Goma camps. Human Rights Watch highlights a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by conflict, inadequate aid, and a lack of safety for returning residents. Urgent action is needed from international bodies and influential nations to ensure the dignity and safety of vulnerable populations amid rising tensions.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
