un emergency in eastern DRC as UN warns of exceptional violence

A United Nations independent investigative commission has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), describing the situation as being of exceptional gravity.

During a presentation in Geneva, the commission reported harrowing accounts of sexual violence, unlawful executions, and forced child recruitment plaguing the North-Kivu and South-Kivu provinces. These regions, abundant in natural resources, have endured decades of conflict, notably between the Congolese army and the M23 armed group.

Civilian vulnerability amid deepening crisis

The commission underscored the deteriorating security conditions, where civilians find themselves increasingly exposed and defenseless against intensifying hostilities and weakening public institutions. “The information brought to our attention paints a picture of exceptional gravity,” stated commission president Arnauld Akodjenou. He highlighted deeply troubling testimonies regarding children, including conflict-related sexual violence, forced recruitment, unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests, and targeted attacks on schools and healthcare facilities.

Preliminary findings and urgent calls for action

Established by the UN Human Rights Council, the commission is investigating alleged violations of international humanitarian law and human rights in the eastern DRC. While its investigations remain in the early stages and definitive conclusions have not yet been drawn, the commission has already documented obstructions to humanitarian access, mistreatment in detention centers, and threats against human rights defenders and journalists documenting abuses.

The experts urged all parties involved in the conflict to ensure “safe, swift, and unhindered” humanitarian access and called on both Congolese authorities and the international community to support credible and independent investigations while strengthening civilian protection. “The suffering we have witnessed demands more than concern—it requires sustained attention, rigorous inquiry, and unwavering international commitment,” Akodjenou emphasized.