Civilians in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo are facing a dire humanitarian crisis as violence escalates due to M23 rebel advances. UN aid official Bruno Lemarquis has called for immediate dialogue and the resumption of humanitarian aid flights, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance amid widespread displacement. The UN urges compliance with international law regarding internally displaced persons and calls for an end to hostilities to alleviate civilian suffering.
As the United Nations Security Council convenes to address the escalating crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the UN’s top aid official, Bruno Lemarquis, implores all parties involved in the conflict to facilitate the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to those in dire need. He emphasized the deteriorating conditions in South Kivu province, where civilians continue to bear the brunt of the conflict. “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 appeal from Mr. Lemarquis coincided with reports of increasing displacement as hostilities intensify, particularly from the advancing M23 rebels, who recently gained control of Bukavu, marking a second major city taken within weeks. He stressed the necessity of halting hostilities and reinitiating dialogue, echoing warnings from the UN Secretary-General regarding the implications of the M23 offensive on regional stability.
To bolster humanitarian efforts, Mr. Lemarquis called for the reopening of vital airports for aid flights in Goma and Kavumu, both under M23 control. The situation in Bukavu remains precarious, with reports of looting affecting humanitarian supplies, including a UN World Food Programme warehouse containing 7,000 tonnes of food aid.
Several churches and community centers in Bukavu are currently sheltering displaced individuals, while assessment activities have resumed. Mr. Lemarquis reiterated the importance of adhering to international law concerning internally displaced persons (IDPs) and criticized the M23’s ultimatum to IDPs in Goma, stating, “Any return can only take place on a voluntary basis, under safe, dignified and sustainable conditions, in accordance with international principles.”
He affirmed that the mandate of relief teams is to provide assistance and protection universally, guided by the principles of neutrality, impartiality, humanity, and independence. The ongoing humanitarian emergency in DRC reflects one of the world’s most complex crises, exacerbated by decades of armed conflict and widespread human rights abuses.
Currently, approximately seven million individuals within the DRC are displaced, with over one million fleeing to neighboring countries. Most refugees find asylum in Angola, Rwanda, Uganda, and several others. The escalation of violence has resulted in significant displacement, with an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 individuals crossing into Burundi within days. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has called for urgent support for refugees, demanding an immediate halt to hostilities in eastern DRC to mitigate further civilian suffering and displacement.
The urgent humanitarian situation in eastern DRC has reached a critical point, necessitating immediate international attention and support. As violent conflicts escalate, the international community must prioritize dialogue among warring parties and ensure the safe and timely delivery of humanitarian aid. The situation highlights the need for adherence to international laws protecting displaced persons while addressing the complex humanitarian needs of millions affected by this protracted crisis.
Original Source: news.un.org
