The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to worry the international community and human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law in the eastern part of the country by armed groups continue to make the news. The report of the UN Group of Experts on the DRC prompted a reaction from the United Kingdom, which expressed concern about the situation in the country.
In a statement released on June 22, the UK’s special envoy for the Great Lakes, Alison Trorpe, condemned external support for armed groups, including M23, FDLR, ADF and CONDECO. She also called on all parties to the conflict to honor their commitments within the framework of the Nairobi and Luanda regional diplomatic peace processes, which she said offer the best way to achieve lasting peace.
However, she stressed that for this, immediate de-escalation by all parties and respect for sovereignty was needed. She also insisted on respect for the human rights of all Congolese and the need to hold accountable those who have committed human rights violations and abuses. According to her, the violence must end in order to give dialogue and peace a chance to succeed and so that those who have endured great suffering can rebuild their lives.
The UK wishes to thank the UN Group of Experts on the DRC for its final report and calls on all Member States to cooperate fully with the Group of Experts. The country stands with those who seek a more peaceful future for the region.
This statement shows that the DRC continues to be under the spotlight of the international community due to the political and security situation in the country. The fight against armed groups and the violation of human rights is a priority for the countries of the region and for the international community, and the pressure on Congolese leaders to take measures to protect the civilian population is growing