The United Nations Human Rights Office has strongly condemned the surge in deadly attacks on civilians by the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), despite a recent ceasefire agreement signed in Doha.*
In a statement, Jeremy Lawrence, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, revealed that M23 fighters—supported by members of the Rwanda Defense Forces (RDF)—killed at least 319 civilians between July 9 and 21 in four villages within the Rutshuru territory of North Kivu province. Among the victims were 19 children, many of whom were local farmers camping in their fields during the planting season.
Ceasefire Violations Amid Escalating Violence
The attacks come despite a ceasefire deal brokered in Doha, intended to de-escalate the conflict. The UN also condemned violence by other armed groups, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and KCO militias, which have carried out multiple attacks in North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces in July.
“All attacks against civilians must stop immediately, and all those responsible must be held to account,” Lawrence said.
UN Calls for Accountability and Peace
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk reiterated his demand for all parties in eastern DRC to protect civilians and comply with international humanitarian and human rights laws. He urged groups that signed the recent Declaration of Principles to engage in the peace process in good faith and take decisive action to end recurring cycles of violence.
DRC Army Struggles Against M23 Offensive
The Congolese military has long battled M23 rebels, but the conflict has intensified since the group—allegedly backed by Rwanda—resumed hostilities. The DRC government and UN experts have repeatedly accused Rwanda of supporting M23, a claim Kigali denies.
As violence spreads, humanitarian conditions worsen, with thousands displaced and civilians trapped in the crossfire. The UN’s condemnation highlights growing international concern over the deteriorating security situation and the urgent need for a lasting political solution.
