The UN Human Rights Council has initiated a commission of inquiry into human rights violations in eastern DRC amidst escalating violence by the M23 armed group. The commission aims to document abuses, hold perpetrators accountable, and support victims’ rights. Concurrently, it is vital for governments to ensure the safety of civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid.
The United Nations Human Rights Council has launched a commission of inquiry into the atrocities occurring in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This decision was made during a special session, prompted by a request from Congo and supported by 48 countries. The inquiry will examine the abuses committed by all parties involved in the ongoing armed conflict.
The recent conflict in North and South Kivu provinces has seen the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group take control of Goma, escalating violence and human rights violations. Reports indicate incidents of summary executions, sexual violence including gang rapes, looting, and forced labor. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, highlighted the increased risk of conflict-related sexual violence as a longstanding issue in the region.
The commission will collect evidence, investigate violations of international human rights, and help hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes. This initiative reflects a growing international commitment to tackle impunity for decades of abuse in eastern Congo and to support victims’ rights to justice and reparations.
Documenting abuses by the M23 remains difficult due to their attacks on activists and restrictions on freedoms. The UN’s move signifies a clear stance against serious violations and aims to ensure that these issues are thoroughly documented and reported.
In addition to this inquiry, governments are urged to implement immediate measures to protect civilians, particularly the displaced individuals and survivors of violence. It is imperative for concerned authorities to enable humanitarian access in Goma and advocate for the cessation of civilian abuses by warring parties.
The United Nations Human Rights Council’s decision to investigate atrocities in the eastern DRC marks a significant step towards accountability and justice for victims of conflict-related violence. The establishment of the commission of inquiry aims to document human rights abuses and support international efforts to address long-standing impunity. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity for immediate protective measures for civilians affected by the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
