The recent attack on a humanitarian convoy in Butembo, in the North Kivu province of the DRC, sparked strong condemnation from humanitarian coordinator Bruno Lemarquis. In a context of worrying escalation of violence, this tragedy once again highlights the dangers facing humanitarian workers and civilian populations in the region.
The incident on June 30, in which two aid workers lost their lives, is incomprehensible and revolting. With humanitarian needs already immense, it is imperative to protect those who dedicate their lives to providing lifesaving assistance to conflict-affected populations.
Bruno Lemarquis strongly emphasized that humanitarian workers and civilians should under no circumstances be targets in conflict zones. He insisted on the need to guarantee the safety and protection of humanitarian workers, while demanding that those responsible for this attack be identified and brought to justice.
This tragedy is part of a broader context of escalating violence in North Kivu province, endangering humanitarian efforts and the lives of those involved. Alarming statistics indicate more than 170 security incidents directly targeting humanitarian workers since the start of the year, resulting in loss of life and numerous injuries.
Furthermore, the phenomenon of kidnappings of humanitarian workers constitutes a blatant violation of international humanitarian law, adding an even more tragic dimension to the already precarious situation in the region. With more than a dozen cases recorded in the first half of 2024, it is imperative to take immediate action to put an end to these heinous acts.
This escalation of violence in the province of North Kivu is unfortunately accompanied by a worsening of humanitarian needs, with massive displacements of populations and increasingly precarious living conditions. The situation is all the more alarming as the province is home to nearly 2.8 million people, including more than 500,000 displaced following recent clashes in the region.
It is more necessary than ever to strongly condemn these acts of violence, guarantee the safety of humanitarian workers and support vulnerable populations affected by the conflicts in the DRC. Attacks against those providing assistance and relief must under no circumstances be tolerated, and justice must be served to ensure that such acts do not happen again.
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