Democratic Republic of Congo: EU supports recommendations of UN report on violence and calls for justice
In an official statement, the European Union (EU) expresses its deep concern at the conclusions of the report of the United Nations group of experts on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The EU says it is “deeply disturbed” by some of the findings and strongly supports the recommendations made by the report.
The security and humanitarian situation in the DRC is worrying, with a recent intensification of humanitarian operations in the east of the country. The EU strongly condemns the violence and atrocities committed with complete impunity against civilians, in particular by armed groups such as M23, FDLR/FOCA, ADF, the CODECO-URDPC group and Zaire/MAPI. Massive rape and sexual violence against women and girls is also cause for consternation. The EU calls on all armed groups to put an end to these heinous crimes.
In this context, the EU supports the extension of the mandate of the UN Group of Experts by the UN Security Council. It also welcomes the decision of the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court to examine the acts committed in North Kivu, at the request of the Congolese authorities.
The EU calls for all those responsible for violations of human rights and international humanitarian law to be brought to justice and held accountable. The prosecution of the perpetrators of these crimes is essential to restore justice and end the impunity that reigns in the DRC.
The EU remains committed to the DRC and actively supports efforts for stability and security in the country. It also calls for transparent and inclusive elections to strengthen democracy in the DRC.
In conclusion, the EU expresses its solidarity with the Congolese people and reiterates its commitment to contribute to the search for lasting solutions to end the violence and improve the situation in the DRC