UN High Commissioner Stresses Urgent Need for Peace and Development in the DRC

Kinshasa, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk concluded his official visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), highlighting the dire situation in the eastern provinces and the critical need for state services, peace, and justice.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Turk’s visit aimed to address the profound humanitarian crisis and the relentless violence plaguing the nation, particularly the eastern regions where groups like M23 continue their onslaught, causing mass displacement and human rights abuses. During his visit, he emphasized the stark contrast between the potential wealth of the DRC, due to its vast resources and resilient populace, and its current status as one of the world’s poorest countries.

The High Commissioner expressed alarm over the reported 500,000 displacements in North Kivu and the 1.8 million in Ituri, inflicted by conflicts and the actions of armed groups such as the ADF and local militias, which also include state security forces. In camps for internally displaced persons, Turk encountered victims of sexual violence and those who have been forced to sell themselves to survive. He stressed the urgent need for the DRC’s state to fulfill its role in providing security and essential services.

Turk urged all nations supporting or influencing armed factions in the DRC to halt their involvement. He also called for an end to the exploitation of the country’s natural resources, which should benefit rather than impoverish local communities. The High Commissioner pointed out that the global community’s reliance on DRC resources, like coltan for mobile phones, should not come at the expense of the Congolese people.

He cautioned against a premature withdrawal of the UN Stabilization Mission (MONUSCO) and highlighted the vital protective roles played by national and international forces. He recommended the South African Development Community mission (SAMIDRC) implement a framework to safeguard civilians.

Turk emphasized that tackling corruption, strengthening the judiciary, and addressing impunity are key to ending the cycle of violence. He expressed concern about the DRC government’s decision to lift the moratorium on the death penalty and commended the commitment and bravery of civil society groups, asserting the necessity of protecting their freedom and safety.

The High Commissioner affirmed the ongoing commitment of the UN to work with international and national partners to support the Congolese people’s rights and called for enhanced social cohesion and a robust social contract between the government and its citizens for the nation’s benefit.