The humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC is intensifying as conflict escalates, particularly in South Kivu, with civilians facing severe hardships. UN aid official Bruno Lemarquis has called for a halt to fighting and for humanitarian access to affected populations. The situation is critical, with thousands displaced, and international support is urgently needed to address the profound suffering and instability in the region.
The humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is worsening, prompting a call from the UN’s top aid official, Bruno Lemarquis, for an immediate halt to hostilities and the resumption of talks. As fighting continues, particularly in South Kivu province, civilians are suffering immensely: “The population can no longer continue to pay such a heavy price for a conflict that continues to spread and now threatens the stability of the entire region.”
The situation remains volatile as more civilians flee from conflict zones, particularly with the advancement of M23 rebels, who have recently captured Bukavu, a significant city in the region. Mr. Lemarquis stressed the necessity of putting a stop to confrontations, urging all parties involved to allow humanitarian aid to reach those in dire need.
Efforts to support affected populations include reopening airports for humanitarian flights in Goma and Kavumu, both under M23 control. Reports indicate a tense atmosphere in Bukavu, where humanitarian assessment activities have recently resumed. However, incidents of widespread looting, including a UN World Food Programme facility, are complicating aid delivery.
The UN today emphasized the importance of upholding international law with regard to internally displaced persons (IDPs), especially following a troubling ultimatum from M23 to IDPs in Goma. Mr. Lemarquis reiterated that any return of displaced individuals must follow principles of voluntary consent, safety, and dignity.
In the context of this crisis, the core mission of aid teams remains the provision of critical assistance and protection to the vulnerable. Their operations are strictly governed by humanitarian principles of neutrality and impartiality without political interference.
The DRC faces one of the most complex humanitarian situations globally, exacerbated by years of political instability and conflict. Currently, seven million people within the country are displaced, and over one million have sought refuge abroad. The UN refugee agency has raised alarms about the increasing suffering and the urgent need for support for refugees.
The ongoing unrest has led to significant displacement; approximately 10,000 to 15,000 individuals have recently crossed into neighboring Burundi. The UNHCR has called for increased aid efforts to alleviate the plight of refugees and end the violence that leads to further suffering.
The situation in eastern DRC is dire, marked by escalating conflict and increasing civilian suffering. Urgent humanitarian assistance is needed, and the UN emphasizes the necessity for dialogue and respect for IDPs’ rights. The international community must provide support to mitigate the effects of this complex crisis, as thousands are displaced due to ongoing hostilities. The call for peace and humanitarian access remains critical as conditions continue to deteriorate.
Original Source: news.un.org
