The U.N. has condemned the rising use of sexual violence as a weapon of war in the escalating conflict between M23 rebels and Congolese troops in eastern DRC. Reports indicate a surge in sexual violence incidents, with over 200 cases documented since hostilities intensified. The humanitarian crisis grows as millions remain displaced and health concerns heighten due to conflict-related issues.
The escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) between M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces has led the U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to denounce the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war. Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for U.N. human rights chief Volker Türk, highlighted that this form of conflict-related violence has haunted the region for decades. Given the current escalation, there are fears that the situation will worsen.
Tensions between the Congolese government and M23 are at an all-time high, with the DRC officially designating M23 as a terrorist organization. The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23, which Rwanda vehemently denies, claiming Kinshasa is collaborating with groups tied to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Clashes between these parties have resulted in significant displacement, raising humanitarian concerns amid ongoing military operations in the region.
Laurence reported an alarming spike in rape and sexual violence incidents amid the armed conflict, particularly intensified by M23’s recent takeover of Goma. The United Nations has documented over 200 reports of such violence, with expectations that the actual figures are far higher due to stigmatization and fear of reporting.
Concerns are heightened for pregnant women due to the increased risk of violence and the prevailing high maternal death rates in the DRC. Tarik Jasarevic from the World Health Organization also noted that ongoing health crises, such as outbreaks of malaria and measles, exacerbate the risks associated with conflict. Since the conflict escalated, at least 700 individuals have been reported killed and over 2,800 injured.
DRC Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner has accused Rwanda of illegally occupying parts of the DRC through M23. In response, Rwanda insists its troops are deployed solely to prevent the conflict from reaching Rwandan territory. U.N. reports also indicate that various armed groups are committing sexual violence, including allegations against Congolese troops in South Kivu.
Additionally, reports highlighted that some women and inmates were victims of sexual violence during a recent prison break amidst the chaos. As the conflict progresses, humanitarian needs are soaring, with millions already displaced from years of violence. Amy Pope from the International Organization for Migration indicated that the current situation is deteriorating rapidly.
New developments suggest M23’s advances toward Bukavu have resulted in the occupation of critical infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, further endangering civilian safety. U.N. rights chief Türkiye emphasized the alarming reach of weapons proliferation, noting it increases risks for civilians in the conflict zone. He called for urgent investigations into violations and accountability for perpetrators.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been plagued by conflict for decades, primarily due to political instability and armed groups vying for control of its vast resources. The ongoing struggles involve various factions, notably the M23 rebel group, which has been accused of using guerilla tactics and violence against civilians, including sexual violence. The United Nations has previously intervened in the region to address human rights violations, and the current escalation poses significant risks to the already vulnerable civilian populations.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has not only exacerbated humanitarian crises but also highlighted the severe implications of sexual violence as a weapon of war. With rising casualties and increasing reports of sexual assaults, the need for international attention and intervention is critical. It is imperative that measures be taken to protect civilians, provide humanitarian assistance, and hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
