UN Commission Warns of Worsening Human Rights Crisis in Eastern DR Congo

June 30, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

A United Nations commission has warned that civilians in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo are facing an increasingly severe human rights crisis, citing allegations of conflict-related sexual violence, unlawful killings and attacks on schools and health facilities.

Presenting its first update to the UN Human Rights Council, the Independent Commission of Inquiry said information collected so far points to an exceptionally grave situation in North and South Kivu provinces, where ongoing conflict, mass displacement and weakened state institutions have left civilians exposed to abuse.

Commission chair Arnauld Akodjenou said testimony received by the panel included allegations involving children, sexual slavery, forced recruitment, arbitrary arrests and attacks on civilian infrastructure.

The commission, established by the Human Rights Council to investigate alleged violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, has conducted more than 50 online consultations and over 30 in-person meetings with victims, civil society groups, government officials, diplomats and United Nations agencies.

During its first mission to the Democratic Republic of the Congo earlier this month, the commission met with victims, survivor support organisations, human rights defenders and government representatives in Kinshasa. It said security and public health conditions prevented it from travelling to Goma, but it intends to visit affected areas in North and South Kivu once conditions permit.

Commissioner Maxine Marcus said investigations remain at an early stage and the panel is not yet able to reach conclusions on the scale of violations or determine responsibility.

She said the commission's work is based on a victim- and survivor-centred approach that prioritises preserving evidence while ensuring victims' experiences are documented and protected.

The commission also reported allegations that humanitarian access has been obstructed, detainees have been ill-treated outside legal safeguards and human rights defenders and journalists have faced threats and intimidation for documenting abuses.

Commissioner Clément Voule called on all parties to ensure that victims, witnesses, journalists and civil society representatives can cooperate with UN investigators without fear of reprisals.

The commission said the humanitarian situation has been compounded by continued fighting, displacement, disease outbreaks and the risks associated with Ebola. It urged all parties to facilitate safe and unrestricted humanitarian access and allow medical personnel and aid workers to reach affected communities.

The panel called on Congolese authorities and the international community to strengthen protection for civilians, preserve humanitarian corridors and support independent investigations, while reaffirming its commitment to conducting impartial investigations and gathering evidence in line with international standards.

Source: FSX Business News