UN Special Rapporteur Mary Lawlor has highlighted the alarming increase in the targeting of human rights defenders in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with the eastern region particularly affected due to ongoing armed conflict. Lawlor’s statement underscores the continuous intimidation, attacks, and killings of these defenders, despite repeated calls for authorities to address human rights violations and apprehend the culprits. The plight of Obedi Karafuru—who was fatally shot after receiving death threats in North Kivu—illustrates the peril faced by those advocating for human rights in rebel-held territories. Further examples include the kidnapping and violence endured by four female activists from “Tous pour la Paix et la Cohésion Sociale” for organizing on women’s rights.
Lawlor has called for enhanced measures to ensure the safety and operational security of these defenders, urging the Congolese authorities to facilitate a safe working environment and to adhere to international investigative standards, such as the Minnesota Protocol. A 2023 national law aimed at the physical protection of human rights defenders is evidently falling short. According to the UN Joint Human Rights Office, from June 2023 to April 2024, 387 human rights defenders and 67 journalists experienced intimidation, violence, and attacks from state agents and armed groups.
The eastern DRC has seen a significant rise in violence, leading to the internal displacement of more than 6.1 million people. This conflict includes actions by the March 23 Movement (M23), which is accused of committing war crimes and other atrocities. The UN’s decision to start withdrawing its MONUSCO mission by transferring its first base to the Congolese government further complicates the situation for human rights defenders in the region.
For the detailed report on the UN’s call for action on these human rights issues, please visit the UN’s official press release.