MONUSCO Condemns Deadly Attacks on Civilians in Ituri, North and South Kivu

The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent wave of deadly attacks targeting civilians in the volatile eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu. The mission reported dozens of civilian deaths in attacks across multiple territories, underscoring the persistent and severe threat posed by armed conflict to the population in this region.

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These violences illustrate once again the persistent threat that armed conflict poses to civilian populations in the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

These brutal acts of violence not only deepen the climate of insecurity but also sow fear and increase the vulnerability of communities already ravaged by years of conflict. MONUSCO expressed grave concern over reports of airstrikes and bombardments in North Kivu, which allegedly resulted in civilian casualties. This highlights the complex and often indiscriminate nature of the violence plaguing eastern Congo.

MONUSCO firmly reminded all parties involved in the conflict of their fundamental obligations under international law. This includes the duty to protect civilians, uphold international humanitarian and human rights law, and take all necessary precautions to prevent civilian harm and damage to civilian property. The mission's call for an immediate cessation of attacks by all armed actors and strict adherence to international norms is a critical plea for de-escalation and the protection of innocent lives.

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All parties to the conflict have the obligation to protect civilians, respect international humanitarian law, international human rights law, as well as other applicable norms of international law, and take all necessary precautions to avoid civilian losses and damage to civilian property.

Furthermore, MONUSCO stressed the importance of accountability, stating that those responsible for violations of international humanitarian and human rights law must be brought to justice. This emphasis on combating impunity is vital for preventing the recurrence of such atrocities and fostering a path towards lasting peace. From the perspective of the DRC, these condemnations, while necessary, often feel insufficient against the backdrop of ongoing suffering. The international community's response, though vocal, must translate into more effective protection on the ground and tangible steps towards justice for the victims.

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Authors of violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses must be brought to justice, in order to fight impunity and prevent the repetition of such acts.