Amid ongoing turmoil, Rwandan-backed M23 rebels declared their takeover of Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s second-largest city, following their earlier capture of Goma. The chaos surging through eastern Congo raises uncertainties about the impact on Bukavu’s residents. Unfortunately, if the situation mirrors conditions in Goma, suffering is likely on the horizon.
The conflict between the M23 and Congolese forces has spurred a litany of horrors—mass displacements, indiscriminate shelling, and brutal killings. Civilians face dire consequences, effectively caught in a web of escalating violence leading to widespread displacement and grave human rights violations, including rampant sexual violence.
Humanitarian conditions have reached a critical level as hundreds of thousands are left without aid, many suffering repeated displacements. Recently, the M23 ordered the expulsion of tens of thousands from displacement camps surrounding Goma, marking a cruel, systematic approach that restricts access to essential humanitarian support, potentially amounting to war crimes.
The M23’s tactic of closing camps complicates the delivery of aid. The looting of aid warehouses and the airport’s shutdown in Goma create formidable barriers to humanitarian relief. Civilians under M23 and Rwandan control are unfairly stripped of their needs—water, food, and shelter—while the international community must escalate its response to this escalating crisis.
Global stakeholders, including the UN and the African Union, must pressure Rwanda to cease its support for the M23. Beyond mere statements, actions are crucial; suspending the EU’s minerals deal with Rwanda and halting military cooperation is vital in addressing these humanitarian disasters.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have captured Bukavu, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo already marked by mass displacements, violence, and human rights violations. The ongoing conflict has left hundreds of thousands without aid, and recent actions by the M23 to close displacement camps further hinder humanitarian relief efforts. International actors need to take stronger action to address these atrocities and support affected civilians.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to unravel as the M23 army, backed by Rwanda, expands its control and inflicts severe humanitarian disasters. With civilians facing relentless suffering, it becomes increasingly essential for international bodies to take decisive action. Ending support for the M23 and addressing Rwanda’s military cooperation are crucial steps towards safeguarding those caught in this volatile conflict.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
