UN Expert Raises Alarm on Risks Faced by Human Rights Defenders in DRC
A UN expert warned that human rights defenders in eastern DRC face high risks of reprisals and serious abuses. Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur, expressed extreme concern over their safety during a press briefing. Ongoing conflicts in DRC and Sudan continue to exacerbate humanitarian crises, highlighting the urgent need for action.
On Wednesday, a United Nations expert raised alarms regarding the perilous situation faced by human rights defenders in the conflict-ridden eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders, articulated her “extreme concern” over the alarming risks of reprisals and grievous abuses against these activists. Furthermore, the UN reported that ongoing conflicts in both the DRC and Sudan are contributing to severe humanitarian crises, underscoring the critical challenges in these regions. Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres, provided these insights during a press briefing held in New York.
The United Nations has issued a stark warning regarding the vulnerabilities of human rights defenders in eastern DRC, emphasizing their exposure to significant risks of reprisals and abuses amidst the ongoing conflicts. The situation remains dire, compounded by humanitarian crises in both the DRC and Sudan, necessitating urgent international attention and action.
Original Source: www.voaafrica.com
