Over 230,000 people have fled violence in eastern DR Congo since January 1, according to the UN. The ongoing conflict, primarily in North and South Kivu, has been fueled by the armed group M23. The situation is marked by severe human rights abuses and a substantial need for humanitarian aid, as 4.6 million individuals are already displaced.
As reported by the United Nations, over 230,000 individuals have fled escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo since January 1. This alarming crisis has emerged in the resource-rich provinces of North and South Kivu, where conflicts have persisted for three decades. The Rwanda-backed M23 group has recently gained prominence, taking substantial territory and capturing the town of Masisi in North Kivu.
Eujin Byun, a spokeswoman for UNHCR, noted that clashes between armed groups and the Congolese army have intensified the already severe humanitarian situation. Widespread human rights violations and forced displacements are common in this region, which already hosts 4.6 million internally displaced individuals, making it one of the largest areas for such cases globally.
Recent reports from local residents indicate intense fighting and heavy weaponry being utilized in the region. Between January 1 and January 6 alone, approximately 150,000 people were forced to evacuate their residences due to the escalating conflict. Even those who returned briefly succumbed to renewed violence, resulting in further displacements.
In South Kivu’s Fizi territory, the local government has urgently sought international aid, citing the refuge of 84,000 individuals in the area. Byun expressed that civilians face extreme dangers, including indiscriminate bombings and sexual violence, with children particularly vulnerable to these attacks.
The humanitarian conditions are deteriorating rapidly, with impediments to access caused by insecurity and armed groups. UNHCR stands ready to provide assistance once access is granted, but it emphasizes the urgent need for increased funding to meet the crisis’s demands. The agency has requested $226 million for aid in DR Congo this year, with less than 10 percent of that amount currently acquired.
The eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo, North and South Kivu, have a long history of conflict, particularly exacerbated by the activities of armed groups such as M23, which is backed by Rwanda. Since its resurgence, M23 has engaged in territorial expansion, leading to significant instability and humanitarian crises. The UN has highlighted this region as one of the world’s most severe under-reported crises, emphasizing the plight of the millions of displaced individuals.
In summary, the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, with over 230,000 forced to flee their homes since the start of the year. The situation is compounded by rampant human rights abuses and a dire need for international assistance. Urgent funding and coordinated responses are required to address the exacerbating needs of those affected by this tragedy.
Original Source: www.france24.com
