Since January 1, 2023, violence in eastern DRC has led to the flight of more than 230,000 individuals, as reported by the UN. The conflict, primarily fueled by the M23 armed group, has worsened existing humanitarian conditions, with millions already displaced. The UN highlights urgent funding needs to support affected populations amidst dire circumstances.
The United Nations reported that over 230,000 individuals have fled the escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since January 1, 2023, highlighting it as one of the most critical humanitarian crises worldwide. The resource-rich provinces of North and South Kivu have faced conflict for three decades, with the M23 rebel group, which has been supported by Rwanda, growing increasingly powerful in recent years.
The M23, designated as a “terrorist movement” by the Congolese government, has captured significant territory since 2021, recently taking the town of Masisi in North Kivu. Eujin Byun, spokeswoman for the UN refugee agency UNHCR, stated, “Escalating clashes between non-state armed groups and the Congolese army in North and South Kivu provinces are intensifying one of the world’s most alarming yet under-reported humanitarian crises.”
Byun further emphasized that these provinces already host 4.6 million internally displaced persons, positioning the DRC as one of the leading countries for those displaced within their own borders. Reports from local villages indicate that residents have experienced clashes and bombardments from heavy weapons, with approximately 150,000 fleeing their homes between January 1 and 6.
In South Kivu’s Fizi territory, officials highlighted that around 84,000 people sought refuge due to ongoing violence. Civilians face dire conditions characterized by “indiscriminate bombings and sexual violence,” with children particularly vulnerable. Byun underscored that humanitarian access is severely limited due to insecurity and the presence of armed groups.
The UNHCR has expressed readiness to provide assistance once security allows but emphasized the urgent need for funding, specifying a requirement of $226 million for aid efforts in the DRC in 2023. As of now, only a fraction of this amount has been obtained, underscoring the critical need for resources to address the escalating crisis.
The ongoing violence in eastern DRC, particularly in North and South Kivu provinces, has deep historical roots, often linked to regional conflicts and the presence of various armed groups. The M23, which has gained notoriety for its role in exacerbating the local conflict, has been backed by external actors, notably Rwanda, leading to ongoing instability and humanitarian crises. The scale of displacement is alarming, with millions having been forced to leave their homes amid deteriorating conditions and increased violence.
In conclusion, the humanitarian situation in eastern DRC is dire, with over 230,000 individuals displaced since the beginning of the year due to escalating violence involving armed groups like the M23. The UN has called for urgent assistance to address the severe humanitarian needs, highlighting the need for both immediate relief efforts and long-term solutions to restore peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
