**Fatshimetry**
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to give rise to serious concerns, particularly regarding the safety of humanitarian workers. Recent events have highlighted the seriousness of the situation, with six humanitarian workers killed between January and June 2024. This sad reality was highlighted by Bruno Lemarquis, Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General in the DRC, during the Day world of humanitarian aid. The figures are alarming, with more than 200 incidents directly targeting humanitarians on the ground and 11 kidnappings during the first half of the current year.
The increase in attacks against civilians and humanitarian actors is worrying, and recent tragedies, such as the burning of a humanitarian convoy in Butembo resulting in the death of two aid workers, highlight the need for urgent action . Bruno Lemarquis called for collective action to protect civilian populations and humanitarian workers against violence, and to fight against the impunity of the perpetrators of these attacks. The protection of humanitarian workers is essential to ensure access to humanitarian aid for people in need and to guarantee respect for fundamental rights.
The provinces of Ituri and North Kivu have been particularly affected by the violence, with more than 630 civilians killed between January and July this year. These figures demonstrate the urgency of action to end this cycle of violence and protect human rights in the DRC. The call to action under this year’s theme, “Acting for Humanity”, resonates as an urgent invitation to the international community to take concrete measures.
It is imperative that civilians and humanitarian workers are not targeted, and that efforts are stepped up to guarantee their security and promote the peace long awaited by the Congolese people. The protection of humanitarian workers is a moral imperative and a necessity to ensure the well-being of the most vulnerable populations. It is time to act, to end impunity, and to make the protection of human rights a top priority.
Together, let’s act for humanity, let’s act for peace. The stakes are too high to remain passive in the face of such a critical situation. It is time to show solidarity, commitment and determination to end the violence in the DRC and work towards a safer and fairer future for all. Peace can only be achieved through concrete actions and a united desire to protect the most vulnerable. It is by acting with determination and compassion that we can build a better future for all.
In these uncertain times, when violence and insecurity threaten the lives of many civilians and humanitarian workers in the DRC, it is imperative that the international community mobilizes and takes concrete action. Acting for humanity means acting for a better, fairer and safer world for all. Humanitarian workers deserve our support, recognition and protection. By joining forces and promoting values of humanity and solidarity, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and build a brighter future for all.