UN Urges Action as Violence Surges in Eastern Congo

The U.N. human rights chief, Volker Turk, expressed grave concerns over escalating violence in eastern Congo, particularly due to the actions of Rwandan-backed M23 rebels, which have resulted in significant human rights violations and a humanitarian crisis. During an emergency session of the Human Rights Council, Turk warned that without urgent intervention, the violence could spill over beyond Congo's borders, affecting regional stability. The Congolese government has called for an investigation into the atrocities committed by the M23 rebels and for international pressure on Rwanda to cease its support of these groups. Meanwhile, Rwanda has rejected the allegations and indicated it faces potential threats from Congo. The ongoing conflict has displaced over 700,000 people and caused more than 900 deaths, with reports of severe human rights abuses, including targeted killings and sexual violence. U.N. experts have highlighted the dire living conditions for the displaced, calling for immediate international assistance to alleviate the suffering of those affected.