The humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has sharply intensified with alarming reports of human rights violations, including the tragic summary executions of children. The UN human rights office, OHCHR, highlighted the horrifying news that three children were killed by the Rwanda-backed M23 group in Bukavu, which recently fell under their control. “Our office has confirmed cases of summary execution of children by M23 after they entered the city of Bukavu last week,” stated spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani, urging respect for human rights and international humanitarian law.
In the wake of escalating violence, approximately 10,000 to 15,000 people have fled into neighbouring Burundi, largely from the Bukavu area. Many of these refugees are Congolese who join over 91,000 others residing in Burundi due to decades of conflict. UNHCR spokesperson Matt Saltmarsh remarked on the dire situation, saying, “The situation in the eastern DRC remains extremely challenging and fluid, with recent clashes in South Kivu forcing more than 150,000 people to flee”.
The mineral-rich eastern DRC is afflicted by longstanding instability, with numerous armed factions displacing countless individuals seeking safety in camps or across borders. The M23 fighters, predominantly Tutsi, have expanded their territory significantly over recent months, seizing key areas in North Kivu and advancing toward South Kivu and Bukavu.
Adding to the tensions are reports of prison breaks in Kabare and Bukavu central prisons, raising fears among victims and witnesses who worry about retaliation from escapees. Ms. Shamdasani highlighted concerns for the safety of legal professionals, journalists, and human rights defenders, many of whom are now forced to abandon their areas of activism. “Others are still stuck in Bukavu and Goma… and expressed fear for their safety due to their active engagement for human rights,” she noted.
Amidst this unfolding crisis, UN human rights chief Volker Türk called for immediate action to protect civilians. He expressed profound concern regarding the dire impacts of ongoing violence in South and North Kivu. “The violence must stop immediately. All parties must respect international humanitarian law, particularly concerning the protection of civilians,” emphasised Shamdasani, urging a recommitment to dialogue for resolution.
The humanitarian situation in eastern DRC is worsening, with concerning reports of summary executions of children by M23 fighters. Over 10,000 people have fled to Burundi due to escalating violence. Key human rights advocates are under threat, leading to increased calls for international action and protection for civilians amid the ongoing crisis.
The ongoing humanitarian emergency in the DRC calls for urgent international attention as reports of human rights violations increase. With children tragically killed in summary executions and thousands fleeing to neighbouring countries, all parties must commit to ending the violence, protecting civilians, and respecting international laws.
Original Source: news.un.org
