Democratic Republic of Congo grapples with persistent violence and fragile truce in the east
The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing a protracted security crisis, where armed conflict, human rights abuses, and forced recruitment continue to ravage civilian communities.
Despite ceasefire agreements and diplomatic interventions, the region remains highly unstable, leaving civilians trapped between warring factions.
For over two decades, the provinces of North and South Kivu, bordering Rwanda and Uganda, have been the epicenter of armed violence.
Government forces, local militias, and rebel groups, particularly the March 23 Movement (M23), have clashed repeatedly, exacerbating insecurity.
Recent months have seen a resurgence of M23 activity, with allegations of external support from Rwanda—a claim Kigali denies—allowing the group to seize large swaths of territory.
Key cities such as Goma and Bukavu, traditionally under government control, fell to the rebels earlier this year, signalling a dramatic shift in the balance of power. The advance has weakened local institutions and undermined peace efforts, leaving the civilian population extremely vulnerable.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Jacquemain Shabani, expressed grave concern over ongoing abuses.
“Human rights violations continue to worsen, despite peace initiatives at the national and regional levels,” he said. He highlighted the existence of parallel administrations imposed by armed groups in rebel-held areas, complicating efforts to restore state authority.
The reported violations include kidnappings, extrajudicial executions, sexual violence, and the forced recruitment of young boys and girls into combat roles.
A ceasefire signed in Doha last July, known as the “Declaration of Principles,” sought to halt hostilities and lay the groundwork for a political resolution. Yet the truce has proven fragile, with both government forces and M23 accusing each other of violations.
The continuation of fighting casts doubt on the sincerity of the commitments made and the prospects for lasting peace.
As violence persists, humanitarian needs are mounting, with thousands displaced and communities struggling to access basic services.
Analysts warn that without a robust political and security response, eastern DRC risks remaining trapped in a cycle of conflict, undermining stability across the wider Great Lakes region.
The situation underscores the urgent need for sustained international engagement, strengthened governance, and effective protection of civilians to prevent further deterioration of an already fragile region.
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