Human Rights Watch has accused Rwandan forces and M23 rebels of indiscriminate shelling of displacement camps near Goma, DRC, as violence escalates in North Kivu. The reported attacks have killed civilians, including children, with the humanitarian situation worsening for over half a million displaced individuals, many facing severe human rights violations, including sexual violence. Despite reporting these findings, HRW has not received feedback from authorities in Rwanda or the DRC.
The recent escalation of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has drawn serious accusations against Rwandan forces and the M23 armed group by Human Rights Watch (HRW). The NGO reported allegations of these forces indiscriminately shelling displacement camps near Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, amidst an intensifying conflict. The situation is dire, with reports of artillery and rocket strikes hitting civilian areas and camps around Goma on numerous occasions since M23’s territorial expansion began earlier this year. The unrest has severely impacted over half a million displaced individuals who are currently seeking shelter in these camps. Following the capture of Sake by M23 and their advance towards Goma, the security situation has deteriorated, with both Rwandan and Congolese forces committing grave violations such as killing, sexual violence, and obstructing humanitarian assistance to those in need. Notably, on May 3, a bombardment from positions held by the Rwandan army and M23 resulted in the tragic deaths of 17 civilians, including 15 children. In light of these developments, Clémentine de Montjoye, an HRW Africa researcher, highlighted the precarious position of civilians caught in the crossfire and underscored the urgent need for all parties to halt their support for armed groups that flout international laws of warfare. Subsequent HRW investigations from May to July 2024 revealed alarming conditions in displacement camps, where significant instances of sexual violence have been reported. Médecins Sans Frontières disclosed that over 10% of young women in Goma’s camps experienced rape in the preceding months, with some camps reporting even higher rates. Despite efforts to communicate findings to both Rwandan and Congolese authorities, HRW has not received responses. As the conflict escalates, the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, now encompassing over 2.4 million displaced persons in North Kivu.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, particularly in North Kivu, has a complex historical background that includes rivalries over resources, ethnic tensions, and the presence of various armed groups. The M23, a predominantly Tutsi-led rebel group, emerged in 2021, claiming to represent the interests of the Tutsi population and opposing the Congolese government. Rwanda has been accused of providing support to M23, reflecting long-standing tensions between Rwanda and the DRC, rooted in the legacy of the Rwandan Genocide and regional power struggles. The situation has escalated with significant human rights violations impacting civilians, particularly in displacement camps around Goma, where war-related violence has surged, leaving many in dire conditions and lacking vital aid.
The allegations made by Human Rights Watch against Rwandan forces and M23 rebels illustrate the growing humanitarian crisis in the eastern DRC. The indiscriminate shelling of civilian areas and displacement camps has resulted in grave harm to non-combatants and a sharp increase in sexual violence against women. Despite efforts to bring these issues to the attention of authorities, the lack of responses indicates a troubling disregard for human rights amid ongoing violence. It is crucial for all involved parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and adhere to international humanitarian laws to prevent further suffering and instability in the region.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
