Nearly one million people have been displaced from their homes in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) this year, according to the UN human rights chief, Volker Turk.
Speaking to the UN Human Rights Council, Turk expressed alarm over the worsening situation in the DRC, emphasizing that conditions are deteriorating daily. He highlighted the disturbing increase in the number of individuals on death row after the DRC lifted its de facto moratorium on the death penalty earlier this year.
Turk, who visited the DRC in April, described the country as facing an “explosive mix” of escalating violence, international interests, exploitative corporations, and a weak rule of law. The UN official reported that the number of victims of human rights violations is rising, particularly in the conflict-affected eastern regions.
In the 12 months leading up to June 1, 85 percent of abuses were reported in the eastern DRC. Armed groups were responsible for approximately 61 percent of these violations, underscoring the severity of the crisis.
During this period, around 700 new victims of sexual violence were documented. Turk condemned the actions of armed groups, stating, “Women and girls are abducted, held captive, and subjected to sexual slavery.” He noted that many victims do not report their cases, adding that such atrocities are rampant.
The UN official reported that 940,000 additional people have been internally displaced this year, raising the total to over 6.4 million. Furthermore, 23.4 million people in the DRC are now food insecure, lacking access to safe and nutritious food.
Turk expressed concern over the DRC’s recent decision to lift the moratorium on the death penalty, describing it as a “major step backwards.” Since this change, military courts have sentenced 128 men to death, raising ethical concerns.
He urged authorities to refrain from carrying out these sentences. Despite its rich natural resources, including minerals and the world’s second-largest rainforest, the DRC suffers from illegal exploitation and arms trafficking.
This exploitation contributes to widespread poverty, as the DRC ranks among the five poorest nations globally. “This situation is unacceptable,” Turk stated.
As the DRC seeks a seat on the UN Human Rights Council, the situation remains dire for its citizens. The country is among five candidates vying for the African seats in upcoming elections.
