Escalating Crisis and Insecurity in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
The humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC is worsening as M23 rebel attacks displace tens of thousands and claim lives. Crime has surged, particularly in Goma and South Kivu. Humanitarian workers are vulnerable, with several fatalities reported. The UN calls for adherence to international law amid ongoing violence and instability as MONUSCO attempts to provide refuge to those affected.
The humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is deteriorating rapidly, primarily due to the ongoing attacks by the M23 rebel group, which has led to widespread displacement and loss of life. According to reports from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), aid workers have not only been targeted but have also been among those killed. As stated by UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, over 100,000 individuals, including many children, have fled their homes in the Lubero Territory, north of Goma, amidst these clashes.
Violence has escalated significantly across North and South Kivu. The M23 rebels are advancing deeper into the region, taking control of critical towns and resulting in the displacement of thousands of residents. The security landscape in the area remains perilous, characterized by rising criminal activities, particularly in Goma, where incidents of home invasions, kidnappings, and vehicle hijackings have increased, often leading to fatalities.
The situation in South Kivu mirrors the chaos in North Kivu, with Bukavu and Uvira reporting incidents of rape and looting. Moreover, a humanitarian worker tragically lost his life due to a stray bullet in Masisi Territory on February 20, marking a grim milestone with a total of six aid workers killed in the region since January.
OCHA has urged all conflict parties to adhere to international humanitarian law and human rights standards. The UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC, known as MONUSCO, has highlighted the continuing instability within M23-controlled territories, where security remains unpredictable. Reports suggest that the rebel group is making further territorial gains toward Lubero.
Despite facing significant restrictions in fulfilling its mandate in M23-dominated areas, MONUSCO continues to offer protection to numerous individuals who have sought refuge in its facilities. Recent efforts include the medical evacuation of 19 military personnel from the Southern African Development Community Mission handling the crisis in Goma.
The ongoing crisis in eastern DR Congo is marked by escalating violence, increasing crime, and the tragic displacement of populations due to M23 rebel activities. Both local residents and humanitarian workers face dire circumstances, with numerous reports of human rights violations. The international community, through organizations like the UN and MONUSCO, emphasizes the need for adherence to humanitarian laws to protect affected individuals and facilitate peace in this volatile region.
Original Source: news.un.org
