The United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO) has just published its half-yearly report on the human rights situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This report documents numerous human rights violations and abuses, highlighting the persistent challenges facing the country.
During the first half of 2023, the UNJHRO documented 2,564 human rights violations and abuses, which represents a slight increase compared to the previous six months. However, compared to the same period in 2022, there is a decrease of 29%. Unfortunately, these violations had tragic consequences, with at least 4,646 victims, including 959 men, 367 women and 154 children, affected by summary and extrajudicial executions.
The report highlights that state agents are responsible for 36% of documented violations and abuses, with 935 cases identified. This represents a slight decrease compared to the previous semester, but remains a concern. The main institutions involved are the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the Congolese National Police (PNC), which respectively account for 45% and 34% of violations committed by State agents.
However, armed groups continue to represent the majority of human rights violations and abuses in the DRC, with 64% of cases recorded during this semester. This upward trend is worrying, although there is a slight decrease compared to the previous semester. Among the armed groups identified, the Mai-Mai are responsible for 23% of attacks, followed by the ADF (17%), CODECO (14%) and M23 (12%).
In terms of geographical location, the provinces in conflict, notably North Kivu and Ituri, continue to experience the greatest number of human rights violations and abuses. However, even in provinces not affected by conflict, such as Haut-Katanga and Kinshasa, violations are still reported.
Faced with this worrying situation, it is crucial that concrete measures be taken to protect human rights in the DRC. It is essential that the government strengthen law enforcement, investigate violations committed by state agents, and take steps to disarm and demobilize armed groups. Moreover, the international community must continue to support the DRC in its efforts to restore peace and stability, while guaranteeing respect for the fundamental rights of the population.
It is our collective responsibility to end these human rights violations and ensure that every individual in the DRC can live in peace, security and dignity