In a context marked by the recent tragic events that shook the Goma region, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the international community has mobilized to strongly condemn the violence which struck the Mugunga displaced persons camp. The bombing that occurred on May 3 caused a heavy toll, with many deaths, including innocent children, as well as numerous injuries which bear witness to the cruelty of the attacks perpetrated against defenseless civilians.
France, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed its solidarity with the victims and their families, while emphasizing the need to shed light on the responsibilities of these attacks which flout the elementary principles of international humanitarian law. The Elysée strongly condemned the escalation of violence against civilians in North Kivu, calling for a cessation of attacks as well as an end to the use of heavy weapons near camps for displaced people, areas which must be sanctuaries of peace and security for vulnerable populations.
French President Emmanuel Macron, during Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi’s recent visit to France, pointed the finger at the M23 offensive and called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces from the DRC, emphasizing the need for negotiated solution to the regional crisis, including for the demobilization of the FDLR. Faced with these senseless attacks against innocent populations, the international community, from the United States to the European Union via Belgium and the UN, unanimously condemned these barbaric acts and called for legal proceedings against their perpetrators.
It is urgent that light be shed on the circumstances of these despicable bombings and that responsibilities be clearly established. The protection of civilians, particularly children and displaced people, must be an absolute priority in conflict zones, and it is up to the international community to work to ensure that such tragedies do not happen again. Solidarity and international cooperation are essential to guarantee peace, justice and respect for fundamental rights in all conflict-affected regions.
In these times of uncertainty and violence, it is imperative that every nation, every political actor and every citizen mobilize to support efforts for reconciliation, peace and justice for populations scarred by conflicts. It is by joining forces and showing solidarity that we can contribute to a fairer, more humane and more peaceful future for all.