ongoing humanitarian violations spark urgent calls for justice in DRC

Intense conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to erode respect for international humanitarian law, despite repeated pledges from authorities and partners to uphold these protections.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has raised alarm over the persistent disregard for these critical safeguards. In response, a high-level conference was convened in Kinshasa on July 23 to underscore the importance of compliance and accountability.

Civilians bear the brunt of unchecked violence

In conflict zones across North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, and parts of Tanganyika, civilians remain trapped in a cycle of violence. The proliferation of armed groups—now numbering over 200—has intensified attacks, including sexual violence, which disproportionately targets women and girls.

“Sexual violence is rampant, with millions of women, girls, and even children falling victim every minute,” warns Julienne Lusenge, a prominent human rights activist. She stresses the urgent need for international sanctions against perpetrators, citing the persistent lack of accountability under global legal frameworks.

“We have yet to see a single international case prosecuted for sexual violence crimes. This must change.”

Military justice aims to curb impunity

While acknowledging the challenges, military authorities in the DRC assert their commitment to prosecuting soldiers accused of human rights abuses. General Jean-Paul Tshayikolo, a military magistrate at the High Military Court, highlights the dual role of justice in both punishing wrongdoers and deterring future violations.

“The military community is divided: there are good and bad elements,” he explains. “Our goal is to eliminate impunity, though zero impunity remains elusive. Every verdict serves as an educational tool for fellow servicemen, reinforcing the message that violations will not go unanswered.”

Statistics provided by the military justice system indicate a steady stream of prosecutions, though activists argue these efforts remain insufficient in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Fragmented conflict complicates accountability

The fluid alliances among armed groups further complicate efforts to identify perpetrators and enforce humanitarian law. The blurred lines between civilian and combatant roles in these conflicts exacerbate the crisis, enabling violations to go unchecked.

Humanitarian experts emphasize that without stronger enforcement mechanisms and sustained political will, the cycle of violence and impunity will persist, leaving civilians increasingly vulnerable.