The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has expressed grave concern over escalating violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), warning of severe consequences for civilians and displaced communities.
UNHCR spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh revealed at a press briefing in Geneva on Friday that the number of people displaced this year has exceeded 400,000—a figure nearly double that of the previous week. Clashes in the conflict-ridden provinces of South and North Kivu have exacerbated conditions for the 4.6 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) already living in the region.
“Human rights violations, including looting, injuries, murders, kidnappings, and arbitrary arrests of displaced individuals, have increased dramatically,” Saltmarsh stated. He also noted that hospitals in the region are nearing capacity due to the influx of injured civilians.
Vulnerable groups, including women, children, and the elderly, are enduring overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions, with limited access to food, water, and basic services. Humanitarian access has been severely restricted, with road closures further complicating relief efforts in areas like Minova.
Saltmarsh emphasized the need for immediate and unrestricted humanitarian access and urged all parties to prioritize the safety and protection of civilians. “It is vital, and long overdue, for peace to take root in the Democratic Republic of Congo for the benefit of its people and the region,” he said.
Potential Attack on Goma Raises Alarm
The UN human rights office also expressed deep concern over the risk of an attack on Goma, the capital of North Kivu, by the M23 armed group. Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani warned that such an attack could have “catastrophic impacts” on hundreds of thousands of civilians, leaving them highly vulnerable to human rights abuses.
Volker Turk, the UN human rights chief, has called on all parties to de-escalate tensions and adhere to international human rights and humanitarian law. Turk stressed the importance of distinguishing civilians from combatants, exercising precaution, and ensuring access to humanitarian aid for those in need.
“The High Commissioner appeals to all states with influence to press for an immediate cessation of hostilities,” Shamdasani said. She also urged any external support for armed groups in the region, including alleged backing of M23 by Rwanda, to come to an end.
Mediation Efforts Welcomed
When asked about potential mediation by Türkiye, Alessandra Vellucci, a UN spokesperson in Geneva, welcomed any efforts to resolve the crisis. She underscored the importance of engaging in ongoing peace processes, expressing hope that all parties remain committed to ending the violence.
The worsening situation in the DRC has drawn global attention, as humanitarian agencies struggle to address the needs of displaced communities amid mounting instability.