Geneva, The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, delivered a grave assessment of the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at the 55th Session of the Human Rights Council. Turk highlighted the alarming levels of insecurity and human rights violations in the country, particularly in the eastern regions, and called for a comprehensive approach to peace and justice to address the deep-seated issues.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Turk detailed the ongoing human rights crisis in the DRC, noting that between October 2023 and March 2024, there were 2,110 documented human rights violations and abuses, with a significant number attributed to armed groups, including the M23. The violence has caused massive displacement, with over 2.5 million people affected in North Kivu alone. He emphasized the urgent need for accountability for these crimes, including sexual violence and summary executions.

Turk stressed that military solutions alone cannot resolve the conflict and called for investment in dialogue, the rule of law, and peace processes, specifically referring to the Nairobi and Luanda initiatives. He also highlighted some progress in the fight against impunity but expressed concern over the reinstatement of the death penalty in the DRC.

The disengagement of the UN Stabilization Mission (MONUSCO) from the DRC was mentioned as a critical point of transition, urging the Congolese government to take responsibility for protecting civilians. Turk’s statement underscored the necessity of integrating human rights into all efforts to stabilize and develop the DRC, calling for increased international support and commitment to these aims.