The human rights situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reached a level of “exceptional gravity,” the United Nations Independent Commission of Inquiry warned on Monday, June 29, citing alarming allegations of severe violence against civilians.
Presenting its first update to the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the commission painted a dire picture of conditions in South Kivu and North Kivu provinces. It denounced a continuous deterioration of the security environment, marked by massive population displacements, weakening public institutions, and a complex regional conflict.
“The information brought to our attention describes a situation of exceptional gravity,” said Arnauld Akodjenou, chair of the commission.
Grave violence and human rights violations
According to the commission, numerous testimonies report serious abuses against civilians, including conflict-related sexual violence, with cases of sexual slavery. Investigators also cite unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests, and forced recruitment, including of children.
Attacks on critical infrastructure—such as schools and health facilities—are also among the documented violations.
“We have received deeply troubling testimonies concerning children and conflict-related sexual violence,” Akodjenou stressed.
A civilian population exposed and unprotected
The commission highlighted that residents of affected areas are particularly vulnerable, often left without protection from violence. Displaced persons, women, children, and already fragile communities are the most exposed.
The humanitarian crisis is compounded by obstacles to humanitarian access, while cases of mistreatment have been reported in detention facilities that fail to uphold fundamental legal safeguards.
“No actor should face reprisals for cooperating with United Nations mechanisms,” reminded commissioner Clément Voule.
Investigation still in preliminary stage
Established by the Human Rights Council, the commission is tasked with investigating alleged violations of international humanitarian law and human rights in eastern DRC. At this stage, its inquiries remain preliminary.
“The commission does not prejudge the facts or responsibilities,” noted commissioner Maxine Marcus, emphasizing the importance of a victim- and survivor-centered approach.
Since starting its work, the commission has conducted over 50 online consultations and more than 30 in-person meetings with various stakeholders. During a mission to Kinshasa in early June, it met victims, civil society organizations, government representatives, and international partners. Thirty-five civil society organizations alone spoke during group meetings.
However, the security situation has not yet allowed investigators to travel to Goma and other affected areas in the east, though visits are planned as soon as conditions permit.
A multidimensional crisis
Beyond the violence, the commission described a crisis with multiple dimensions, affecting security, health, governance, education, and the economy. This situation is worsened by ongoing fighting, population displacements, and health risks, including the Ebola epidemic.
Faced with this context, the UN body called on all parties to the conflict to ensure safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access, especially for the most vulnerable groups.
Urgent call to action
The commission stressed the need to place victims at the center of efforts to combat impunity and urged national authorities and the international community to act urgently.
Its recommendations include:
- preserving humanitarian corridors,
- protecting human rights defenders and local observers,
- supporting independent and credible investigations.
“The suffering brought to our attention demands more than concern. It requires rigorous investigation and determined international engagement,” concluded Akodjenou.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting independent and impartial investigations to establish the facts and contribute to justice, in a context where victims’ expectations remain particularly high.
