The humanitarian crisis in eastern DR Congo is worsening due to intensifying conflict, particularly with advancing M23 rebels. UN humanitarian coordinator Bruno Lemarquis has urged immediate dialogue and aid access for vulnerable populations. The situation remains tense, with rampant looting and a rising number of displaced individuals, as humanitarian agencies strive to provide critical assistance amidst escalating needs.
As the UN Security Council gets ready to address the escalating crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the UN’s chief humanitarian representative has called for all combatants to allow essential aid to reach those most in need. UN humanitarian coordinator Bruno Lemarquis emphasized the dire situation, stating that the ongoing conflict, particularly in South Kivu province, is inflicting immense suffering on civilians.
The conflict continues to worsen, particularly with the advance of Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. Recently, these opposition fighters have seized control of Bukavu, marking the second major city in eastern DRC to fall in a short time. Mr. Lemarquis urged an end to hostilities and a return to dialogue to address the growing threat to regional stability.
The humanitarian response teams in the region are focused on reopening airports in Goma and Kavumu to facilitate aid delivery to affected communities. Reports indicate a tense security situation in Bukavu, compounded by incidents of looting, including the theft of 7,000 tonnes of supplies from a World Food Programme warehouse.
Despite the challenges, humanitarian organizations resumed their assessment activities to address the plight of displaced individuals, many of whom are seeking refuge in churches and other communal centers in Bukavu. Mr. Lemarquis highlighted the need for respect for international laws related to internally displaced persons and emphasized the importance of voluntary returns under safe and dignified conditions.
The UN humanitarian coordinator reiterated that aid workers operate under principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence. Their primary mission is to offer essential assistance to vulnerable populations, a task increasingly critical amid the complex humanitarian crisis in DRC, exacerbated by ongoing violence and human rights violations.
With seven million people internally displaced and over one million seeking refuge in neighboring countries, the scope of the crisis is staggering. Countries such as Uganda, Rwanda, and Angola currently host these refugees, while DRC itself accommodates more than half a million asylum seekers and refugees.
The recent surge in violence has resulted in the forced displacement of hundreds of thousands, with thousands crossing into Burundi. The UN refugee agency has issued urgent appeals for enhanced support to assist these refugees and to halt the ongoing hostilities, thereby preventing further civilian hardship.
The humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to deteriorate, necessitating urgent international attention and action. The conflict, driven by the M23 offensive, poses a significant threat to civilians and regional stability. Despite the challenges faced by humanitarian teams, the call for increased support and adherence to international law remains critical in addressing the urgent needs of displaced populations and ensuring their safety and dignity.
Original Source: news.un.org
