UN warns of potential war crimes in eastern DRC conflict

UN warns of potential war crimes in eastern DRC conflict
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The United Nations has accused multiple armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) of serious human rights abuses, some of which may amount to war crimes. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk told the Human Rights Council in Geneva that investigations by his office have revealed widespread violations committed by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels, Congolese forces, and allied militias.

The abuses include arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, extrajudicial executions, and forced recruitment of civilians, including children. The UN also reported alarming levels of sexual violence, with nearly 40% of survivors being children. UNICEF estimates a child was raped every 30 minutes during the conflict’s peak in North and South Kivu.

OHCHR is investigating violations by all sides, including reprisals against journalists, activists, and critics of M23. Türk urged all parties to commit to a ceasefire, resume negotiations, and uphold international humanitarian law.