UN says Congo conflict abuses may amount to war crimes

The UN Human Rights Office said on Friday that armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, including M23 rebels and government forces, committed serious violations that may amount to war crimes, citing killings, rapes and torture.

The UN Human Rights Office has accused multiple parties in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s ongoing conflict of committing atrocities that could amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity.

According to its Fact-Finding Mission, the Rwandan-backed rebel group M23, the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC), and affiliated militias such as the Wazalendo have carried out widespread violations of international humanitarian law since fighting escalated in late 2023.

Abuses detailed

The report cites summary executions, enforced disappearances, and systematic sexual violence as key violations. It states that M23 fighters used rape, including gang rape, to punish and degrade victims, mainly women.

Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, described the findings as “horrific” and urged accountability.

M23 seized Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, in January and advanced further across North and South Kivu. Thousands have been killed this year, and hundreds of thousands displaced, in a region that is rich in minerals such as tin, gold and coltan.

Rwanda’s role

The UN report said M23 received training and operational support from Rwanda’s Defence Forces, alleging covert RDF involvement. Kigali has denied backing M23, insisting its troops only defend against Congolese forces and Hutu militias tied to the 1994 genocide.

M23 itself has also rejected accusations of atrocities.

Government abuses

The UN said Congo’s army and pro-government militias were also implicated in grave abuses, including killings, looting and sexual violence against civilians.

Stalled peace efforts

Mediation by Qatar led to a declaration of principles signed in July, with both sides pledging to pursue peace talks in August. However, the deadline passed without progress, leaving the conflict unresolved.

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