The United Nations Human Rights Investigation Commission for Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has outlined its urgent mission following a critical briefing in Geneva. The independent body, established to examine escalating violence in North-Kivu and South-Kivu provinces, emphasized its commitment to establishing facts, preserving evidence, and preventing further abuses against civilians.
Critical mission objectives in a high-stakes environment
Arnauld Akodjenou, Chair of the Commission, delivered a sobering assessment to the UN Human Rights Council, highlighting the exceptional gravity of the situation in eastern DRC. The Commission’s first mission, conducted in Kinshasa rather than the conflict zones due to security constraints, revealed harrowing accounts from survivors, government officials, civil society representatives, and international partners.
Unprecedented civilian suffering demands immediate action
During the Geneva briefing, Akodjenou detailed appalling violations documented by the Commission:
- Systematic sexual violence – including sexual slavery and gender-based crimes
- Forced recruitment of children into armed groups
- Extrajudicial killings and arbitrary detentions
- Targeted attacks on schools and medical facilities
- Humanitarian obstruction through illegal roadblocks and extortion
- Intimidation campaigns against journalists and human rights defenders
The Commission also expressed grave concern over Ebola outbreak exacerbating the crisis, with displaced populations particularly vulnerable to both disease and violence.
Independent investigation critical to breaking cycles of impunity
Akodjenou emphasized the Commission’s impartial approach, stating: “Our mandate is not directed against any state, community, or institution. We seek to establish facts with complete independence, preserve evidence, and prevent future violations through credible, victim-centered investigations.”
The investigation, mandated by UN Human Rights Council resolution S-37/1 (February 2025), focuses on:
- Root causes of human rights violations since January 2025 escalation
- Gender-based violence, particularly against women and children
- Attacks on displaced persons and refugees
- Potential international crimes in the ongoing hostilities
Path forward: securing access and protecting witnesses
While the initial mission couldn’t reach Goma due to security conditions, the Commission has engaged with affected communities through virtual consultations. Plans are underway to deploy to North-Kivu and South-Kivu provinces “as soon as conditions permit.” The team is particularly focused on:
- Protecting victims and witnesses from retaliation
- Documenting evidence using forensic and digital methods
- Collaborating with local partners while maintaining neutrality
The Commission’s work represents a crucial step toward accountability in a region where nearly 2,000 human rights violations and 260 cases of conflict-related sexual violence have been documented in just six months, according to recent UN reports.