Deeply disturbed by the conclusions of the report of the United Nations group of experts on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the European Union (EU) positions itself in favor of its recommendations. In a statement, the EU expresses its concern at the deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation in the DRC, which has led to an intensification of humanitarian operations in the east of the country.
The EU strongly condemns the violence and atrocities committed against civilians, in particular by the M23, the FDLR/FOCA, the ADF, the CODECO-URDPC group and Zaire/MAPI. Reports of massive sexual violence against women and girls are also a source of great consternation for the EU. It calls on all armed groups to put an end to these violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, stressing that those responsible must be brought to justice.
With this in mind, the EU welcomes the decision of the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court to examine the acts committed in North Kivu, following the request of the Congolese authorities. This demonstrates the EU’s will to fight against impunity and to ensure that the crimes committed do not go unpunished.
At the same time, the EU welcomes the extension of the mandate of the UN Group of Experts by the UN Security Council. This reinforces the legitimacy and effectiveness of these experts in their mission to monitor and assess the situation in the DRC.
In conclusion, the EU reaffirms its support for the recommendations of the report of the United Nations group of experts on the DRC. It calls for an end to the violence, the prosecution of those responsible for the atrocities and the promotion of justice for the victims. The EU will continue to work with the international community to help resolve the crisis in the DRC and support the Congolese people in their quest for peace and stability.