Rising violence and broken peace deals in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
The humanitarian landscape in the Democratic Republic of Congo has reached a breaking point as conflict intensifies across the eastern regions. Since May 2021, the provinces of Ituri and North-Kivu have remained under a state of siege, yet stability remains elusive. Despite high-level diplomatic efforts—including the Washington agreement from June 2025 and subsequent endorsements by Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo in November 2025—the bloodshed continues. The Doha framework signed between the government and the AFC/M23 has similarly struggled to halt atrocities, with hostilities recently spilling over into Uvira, proving the extreme fragility of current ceasefire attempts.
A devastating human and civil toll
Over the past year, the toll of this armed struggle has been catastrophic, claiming more than 10,000 lives. Millions of citizens have been forced to flee their homes, creating a massive internal displacement and refugee crisis. Security forces and various militia groups, most notably the Rwanda-backed M23/AFC, stand accused of severe human rights violations. These include systematic torture and degrading treatment, directly violating international standards for civil and political rights.
Beyond the physical violence, the Democratic Republic of Congo is witnessing a sharp contraction of civic freedoms. Public demonstrations are frequently banned, and the environment for independent journalism has become increasingly hostile. Human rights defenders, political opponents, and civil society members face a grim choice: exile or the risk of arbitrary arrest and intimidation. This exodus of local monitors has severely hampered the ability to document abuses and seek justice for victims.
International scrutiny and collective action
In response to these ongoing crises, a coalition of human rights organizations is bringing these issues to the global stage. This joint effort involves the World Organisation Against Torture along with local partners such as Afia Mama, the Alliance pour l’universalité des droits fondamentaux, SOS Informations juridiques multidimensionnelles, and Voix des sans voix pour les droits de l’homme. Their collective findings serve as a critical submission ahead of the periodic review of the Democratic Republic of Congo regarding its compliance with international human rights treaties.
