The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) has issued a powerful resolution condemning the renewed outbreak of violence in the eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), describing the human rights situation as “seriously deteriorating” and “deeply concerning.”
The resolution, adopted during the Commission’s 82nd Ordinary Session held online from February 25 to March 11, 2025, highlights the devastating humanitarian toll of the conflict between the FARDC (Congolese Armed Forces) and the AFC/M23/RDF rebel alliance, which has escalated since January. According to the Commission, the ongoing hostilities have resulted in nearly 10,000 deaths and the displacement of thousands of civilians.
In the strongly worded resolution, the Commission “firmly condemns” all acts of violence against civilians, including mass rapes, child soldier recruitment, targeted assassinations, and the destruction of IDP camps, schools, prisons, and critical infrastructure. It reiterated its call for all parties to “immediately cease hostilities” and engage in peaceful dialogue.
“The situation in the eastern DRC is not only a security crisis but a massive human rights catastrophe,” the Commission stated, warning that the conflict is unraveling the country’s economic and social fabric.
The ACHPR also reminded the Congolese government of its responsibility to protect its citizens and reassert control over all territories within its borders. It urged authorities to end the cycle of impunity by ensuring that perpetrators of violence are held accountable, including through cooperation with international criminal justice mechanisms.
The resolution further called on neighboring countries, regional bodies such as the African Union and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, and the broader international community to intensify efforts toward a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
“The time for action is now,” the Commission stressed, appealing for continued humanitarian aid to avert a worsening disaster and reaffirming the African Union’s core principle of preserving peace, security, and the territorial integrity of member states.
This resolution follows a series of ACHPR interventions on the DRC over the years and reflects growing alarm over the protracted instability that has plagued the mineral-rich eastern region for decades.
About the ACHPR
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, an organ of the African Union, is mandated to promote and protect human rights across the continent. Its resolutions serve as guiding frameworks for AU member states on issues of governance, justice, and human dignity.
