Aid Chief Criticizes World Leaders for Neglecting Displaced Civilians in DRC

World leaders should be ashamed of their neglect towards civilians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), The Guardian reported citing Jan Egeland, head of the Norwegian Refugee Council. He criticized the “nationalistic winds” in the US and Europe for cuts to aid, leaving many displaced individuals living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions around Goma, where 1.2 million have fled due to M23 rebel advances.

Egeland described the dire situation, with overflowing latrines and people forced to sleep in classrooms used for schooling during the day. He emphasized that humanitarian needs have worsened since the M23 rebellion began in 2022, complicating the lives of displaced individuals. Many have been given only 72 hours to leave camps, often returning to unsafe homes.

He highlighted the need for both political solutions and cash aid to help rebuild lives. Egeland noted that while Norway has provided support, many charities struggle due to delayed funding, exacerbating the crisis for those in need.