UN Human Rights Council Convenes Emergency Session on Congo Crisis

The United Nations Human Rights Council will convene an urgent session on February 7 to address the deteriorating human rights situation in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, following its capture by M23 rebels supported by Rwanda. The region has a history of conflict that has resulted in millions of casualties and has recently seen a surge in human rights abuses, including summary executions and sexual violence. The Democratic Republic of Congo requested the session, and it has garnered support from 27 member countries, exceeding the required threshold for convening. Although the council lacks legal enforcement power, its discussions can influence international pressures on governments. The session marks a significant response to the ongoing violence, which has raised concerns about further advances by M23 into neighboring areas. Additionally, M23 has declared a humanitarian ceasefire ahead of upcoming talks between Congolese and Rwandan leaders.