UN warns that the worst is yet to come in the ongoing conflict in Eastern Congo.

On Friday, Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, issued a stark warning regarding the escalating crisis in Eastern Congo. He stated that the worst may still be ahead, anticipating a rise in sexual violence, including rape and sexual slavery.

Urgent Meeting of the UN Human Rights Council

Turk made these comments during an emergency session of the UN Human Rights Council, convened at the request of Congo to investigate serious violations attributed to the March 23 Movement (M23), a militia backed by Rwanda that has seized the city of Goma.

In a packed hall filled with diplomats and human rights groups in Geneva, Turk emphasized, “If nothing is done, the worst has yet to come for the people of Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, and also beyond its borders… Those with influence must act urgently to end this tragic situation.”

Alarming Reports of Sexual Violence

Turk expressed his horror at multiple reports of rape, gang rape, and sexual slavery. He warned, “The situation is likely to worsen under current conditions.”

Rwanda Denies Allegations

In response to the accusations, Rwanda’s envoy to the UN rejected claims of his country’s responsibility, asserting that he possesses evidence indicating that Congo is planning a large-scale attack on Rwanda.

International Condemnation of Human Rights Violations

During the meeting, numerous countries, including several African nations, condemned the human rights violations occurring in Congo. Notably, the United States, which previously held a seat on the Human Rights Council, left its chair empty after President Donald Trump announced the country’s withdrawal from the council.

Proposal for a UN Fact-Finding Mission

The Democratic Republic of Congo proposed the establishment of a UN fact-finding mission to provide a comprehensive report on violations in the eastern region by September 2025. The council unanimously approved this proposal on Friday. An internal UN memo reviewed by Reuters indicated that Rwanda was the only dissenting voice during the negotiations.

Impact of Council Discussions

While the council lacks legally binding authority, its discussions carry significant political weight and can increase global pressure on governments. In some instances, investigations mandated by the council can lead to war crime prosecutions in international courts.

This situation in Eastern Congo continues to draw international attention, highlighting the urgent need for action to address the ongoing human rights crisis.

 

To follow the news in Arabic