UN rights chief Volker Türk warned of escalating violence in eastern DRC due to the M23 offensive, highlighting that nearly 3,000 have died since January. The ongoing conflict is worsened by Rwanda’s military support for M23. Humanitarian needs are urgent as sexual violence and health risks surge in the region, with calls for international action to stop the crisis.
The United Nations Human Rights Chief, Volker Türk, expressed deep concern regarding the escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) attributed to the Rwanda-backed M23 offensive. He warned that if immediate action is not taken, the situation could deteriorate further, affecting not only the local population but also neighboring countries. Since January 26, approximately 3,000 individuals have been killed and nearly 2,880 injured due to M23 attacks in heavily populated areas.
The ongoing crisis in eastern DRC is attributed to the support of armed groups, notably the M23 by Rwanda, leading to significant loss of life and widespread humanitarian suffering. The international community is urged to take action, as the human rights violations are severe and ongoing, necessitating humanitarian assistance and protection for the vulnerable population. Community awareness and engagement are crucial in addressing the exploitation of mineral resources exacerbating the conflict.
Original Source: news.un.org
