UN Calls for Ceasefire Amid Increased Fighting in South Kivu, DRC

On Thursday, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk urged parties involved in the conflict in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to cease hostilities. The call follows intensified clashes between DRC armed forces and the M23 group, which is reportedly supported by Rwanda, over the last two weeks.

Escalating Violence in South Kivu

The fighting in South Kivu has escalated significantly, particularly around Mulima village in Fizi on July 4 and 5. Despite a peace agreement signed in Doha late last year, violence has persisted, resulting in civilian casualties and displacement. Türk expressed concern about the ongoing conflict, stating, "It is deeply troubling that despite the agreements reached as part of the ongoing peace processes, fighting continues unabated in eastern DRC — killing, injuring and displacing civilians and destroying livelihoods."

These clashes are part of a larger struggle that has resumed since the M23 reemerged in 2021, seizing large areas of territory in a region historically plagued by conflict. The situation is further complicated by a tense relationship between the DRC and Rwanda, with both sides accusing each other of failing to dismantle militant groups.

Impact on Civilians and Human Rights Concerns

The UN has highlighted the severe impact of the conflict on civilians, with calls for both the M23 and DRC forces to protect the local population. Türk stated, "I urge the Congolese armed forces and the M23 to immediately step back from further violence and urgently act to de-escalate tensions." He emphasized the need to halt the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, as they have devastating consequences.

Additionally, the UN suspects both the DRC and M23 of committing war crimes during the recent fighting. Türk's office has urged Rwanda to withdraw its troops from the DRC and cease support for the M23, while also calling on the DRC to enhance efforts to demobilize and disarm the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).

The Broader Context of Conflict in DRC

South Kivu is a resource-rich border region between the DRC and Rwanda, known for its deposits of gold, tin ore, and coltan. The historical context of conflict in the area dates back to the Rwandan civil war and genocide in the early 1990s, which forced millions of ethnic Hutu to flee to the DRC. The ongoing tensions have led to multiple conflicts, including the First and Second Congo Wars.

Currently, South Kivu is also grappling with an ongoing Ebola outbreak, which health officials warn could be exacerbated by the armed conflict, hindering containment efforts. Public dissatisfaction with the government of Felix Tshisekedi is also rising, with opposition groups alleging attempts to extend presidential term limits through constitutional reforms.