Geneva: The European Union has issued a strong condemnation of the grave human rights violations occurring in the North Kivu and South Kivu provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The EU's statement comes amid reports of severe abuses committed by both government forces and armed groups in the region. According to European Union, the EU has expressed horror at reports of extrajudicial, summary, and arbitrary executions taking place in eastern DRC. The EU has called for those responsible for these violations and abuses of international humanitarian law to be held accountable. The statement also urged Rwanda to cease all support to the M23 armed group and called for the disengagement of its forces. Additionally, the EU has requested that the M23 group halt its offensive operations and withdraw from occupied territories. The government of the DRC has also been called upon to stop supporting armed groups and to continue efforts to neutralize the FDLR. The EU further highlighted the unacceptabl e nature of grave violations against children and the pervasive use of sexual and gender-based violence, particularly targeting women and girls. Such acts must end immediately, with accountability sought without delay. Additionally, there is serious concern regarding the impact of drone strikes on civilians, with an urgent need for a ceasefire to protect civilians and aid workers. Ensuring safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access is deemed critical, especially amid the ongoing Ebola outbreak. The EU has also called on all parties, including third countries, to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigations by the International Criminal Court (ICC). The deteriorating human rights situation emphasizes the need for adequate resources for the Independent Commission of Inquiry to effectively combat impunity. The EU reaffirms its support for ongoing peace efforts, underscoring the importance of African leadership in achieving lasting peace in the region. The EU has posed an important question to experts, s eeking guidance on actions that need prioritization to end the cycle of violence and impunity in eastern DRC.
