Human Rights Watch reports that Rwanda’s army, alongside M23 rebels, has shelling displaced person camps in eastern Congo, exacerbating civilian risk. Both parties are accused of serious human rights violations, as Congo’s President calls for sanctions against Rwanda for its military support of the M23 group.
Recent reports from Human Rights Watch indicate that Rwanda’s army, in conjunction with a supported militia, has been involved in shelling camps for displaced individuals in eastern Congo. The rights organization asserts that these operations have been indiscriminate and have resulted in civilian casualties, while also casting blame on the Congolese army for exacerbating risks to these vulnerable populations. Since the beginning of this year, both Rwandan forces and the M23 militia, which Rwanda endorses, have targeted these camps housing tens of thousands of displaced persons. Simultaneously, the Congolese army has allegedly placed artillery in proximity to the camps, thereby increasing the danger for residents. Human Rights Watch highlighted severe human rights violations, including killings, sexual assaults, and the obstruction of humanitarian aid, committed by both factions. The persistent armed conflict in eastern Congo has led to violence involving over 120 armed groups competing for control over land and valuable resources. These conflicts have reportedly led to the displacement of approximately six million individuals in the region. The M23, predominantly comprising ethnic Tutsis, emerged from the Congolese army about a decade ago and has since been involved in significant military offensives, notably in 2012 when they briefly captured the provincial capital of Goma, a situation they are now threatening to replicate again. Allegations have arisen from Congo regarding Rwandan involvement in aggression and war crimes in the eastern region, with accusations of Rwanda providing support to M23 substantiated by U.S. and U.N. experts. While Rwanda denies these accusations, it previously acknowledged the presence of its troops and missile systems in eastern Congo, asserting that this military deployment is intended to safeguard its national security against a buildup of Congolese forces along the border. A recent estimate from U.N. experts suggested that between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan government troops are currently operating in eastern Congo alongside M23 forces. Furthermore, legal proceedings have been initiated by Congo in a regional court, seeking to address violations of its sovereignty and territorial integrity attributed to Rwandan military actions. During a speech at the recent U.N. General Assembly, Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi has urged for sanctions to be imposed against Rwanda in light of its alleged support for the M23 militia.
The tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Congo) have historical roots, heavily influenced by the Rwandan Genocide in 1994, which resulted in a massive influx of refugees into the eastern region of Congo and subsequent armed conflicts. With Rwanda supporting various armed groups in Congo, the geopolitical dynamics of the region have been deeply affected. The M23, a rebel group emerging from these conflicts, has been at the center of ongoing allegations against Rwanda for its improper engagement in Congolese territory and its support of insurgent factions. The complex interplay of ethnic tensions, resource competition, and external military support continues to perpetuate instability in the region, impacting millions of civilians and contributing to a humanitarian crisis.
The findings of Human Rights Watch illustrate a troubling pattern of violence and human rights abuses in eastern Congo, particularly involving the Rwandan army and the M23 militia. The report emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and protection for civilians caught in the crossfire of these ongoing conflicts. With the situation remaining volatile and legal actions against Rwanda emerging, the international community must closely monitor developments to safeguard human rights and support peace efforts in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
