The UN refugee agency expressed grave concerns over heightened violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, warning that over 400,000 individuals have been displaced this year alone. Conditions for vulnerable populations are severe, with limited access to necessities and ongoing human rights abuses. The UN human rights office highlighted imminent risks to civilians if Goma is attacked, calling for de-escalation and humanitarian access.
The UN refugee agency expressed grave concerns regarding the escalating violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, threatening the safety of civilians and internally displaced persons (IDPs). According to spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh, displacement numbers have surged to over 400,000 this year, nearly double the figures from the previous week. Ongoing clashes in South and North Kivu have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with reports of heightened human rights abuses including violence and looting.
Conditions for vulnerable populations, including women, children, and the elderly, are dire, with overcrowding and limited access to essential resources such as food and clean water. Saltmarsh highlighted the severe restriction of humanitarian access, particularly to Minova, which remains cut off. He urged all parties to allow unrestricted access to those in need and to prioritize civilian safety.
Additionally, the UN human rights office warned about the potential catastrophic consequences of a possible attack on Goma, the capital of North Kivu, by the M23 armed group. Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani detailed the risks faced by civilians, emphasizing the need for all parties involved in the conflict to maintain the safety of non-combatants and adhere to international humanitarian standards.
The UN’s human rights chief, Volker Turk, called for de-escalation of tensions and adherence to humanitarian laws, urging all states with influence to facilitate an immediate cessation of hostilities. The necessity of accountability regarding support for armed groups, including potential involvement from neighboring countries, was emphasized. Furthermore, UN spokesperson Alessandra Vellucci welcomed Türkiye’s willingness to mediate the crisis while reiterating the importance of ongoing diplomatic processes.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been plagued by decades of conflict, particularly in its eastern regions. The escalation of violence has resulted in millions of internally displaced persons (IDPs), with 4.6 million currently affected. Humanitarian conditions have worsened as ongoing conflicts hinder aid delivery and expose civilians to severe human rights violations, underscoring the urgent need for international attention and intervention to restore peace in the region.
In summary, the UN refugee agency and human rights officials have raised alarms about the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian access and civilian protection. With the number of displaced individuals rising and conditions deteriorating, there is an imperative call for a ceasefire and the promotion of sustainable peace efforts in the region.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
