Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the Rwandan army and M23 rebels of indiscriminately shelling displacement camps around Goma, North Kivu, resulting in numerous civilian casualties and severe human rights violations. Over half a million displaced individuals have been affected, with the total surpassing 2.4 million in the region. HRW has documented abuses and called for both Rwandan and Congolese authorities to ensure the protection of civilians.
The international organization Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised serious allegations against the Rwandan army and the M23 rebel group, accusing them of indiscriminately shelling displacement camps in the vicinity of Goma, North Kivu, amid escalating violence in the region. Since the M23 captured the strategic town of Sake earlier this year, there have been multiple documented instances in which artillery and rocket fire have affected both camps and densely populated areas surrounding Goma. HRW’s report details that this armed conflict has resulted in severe human rights violations, including the killing and sexual assault of civilians as well as the obstruction of critical humanitarian assistance to affected populations. The situation has led to a staggering rise in the number of internally displaced individuals in North Kivu, surpassing 2.4 million according to recent estimates. In particular, a tragic incident reported on May 3, 2024, resulted in the deaths of 17 civilians, predominantly children, due to rocket strikes originating from positions held by the Rwandan army and M23. The humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by the actions of both Rwandan and Congolese forces, contributing to widespread suffering among the local populace caught in the crossfire. HRW has conducted thorough field research, interviewing numerous survivors and assessing the aftermath of the violence through satellite imagery and videographic evidence. Despite submitting their critical findings to both Rwandan and Congolese authorities, HRW lamented the absence of any official response. The organization has called for cessation of hostilities and urged both governments to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and prevent further abuses.
The DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo) has been embroiled in conflict since the resurgence of the M23, an armed group that first emerged in 2012 and resurfaced in 2021. The eastern region, particularly North Kivu, has been a hotspot for fighting due to the presence of various militia and rebel groups, including the M23, which has received backing from Rwanda. This situation has led to widespread displacement, dire humanitarian conditions, and severe human rights abuses, drawing the attention of global organizations like Human Rights Watch, which has documented significant atrocities amidst ongoing violence. The geopolitical interests of Rwanda in DR Congo, particularly regarding mineral resources and regional security concerns, have compounded the complexities of this conflict making the civilian population increasingly vulnerable.
The allegations of indiscriminate shelling by Rwandan forces and M23 rebels raise serious concerns over the protection of civilians in conflict zones. The humanitarian repercussions of the ongoing violence in North Kivu are dire, with millions displaced and significant instances of abuse reported. The situation necessitates urgent international attention, and both Rwandan and Congolese authorities must be held accountable to ensure the protection and rights of civilians during this crisis. It is imperative that diplomatic and humanitarian efforts be escalated to restore safety and order in the affected regions.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
