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Human rights

UK Condemns Human Rights Abuses in Eastern DRC, Calls for Restraint

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The UK has expressed deep concern over the scale of human rights abuses, including sexual violence, by armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In a statement to the UN Security Council, UK Deputy Permanent Representative James Kariuki condemned the killing of civilians by the Rwanda-backed M23 and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Ituri province. The UK urges all parties to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and comply with ceasefires.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UK welcomes the momentum towards peace generated by EAC-SADC, the AU, and the signing of the Peace Agreement between DRC and Rwanda in Washington.
  • The UK condemns the widespread killing of civilians by M23 in Rutshuru territory and killings by ADF in Ituri province.
  • The scale of human rights abuses, including sexual violence, by armed groups in eastern DRC is deeply concerning.
  • The UK calls on all parties to show restraint, avoid further escalation, and engage constructively in the peace process.
  • The UK is concerned by restrictions imposed on MONUSCO's freedom of movement by M23, but welcomes news that supplies of fuel and water are no longer being restricted.
  • The UK strongly supports efforts towards peace in Eastern DRC and commends ongoing mediations by the US, Qatar, and the AU.
  • The parties should urgently and fully comply with ceasefire commitments and protect civilians.

Statistics:

  • At least 100 civilians have been killed by M23 in Rutshuru territory (Source: UK statement at the UN Security Council).
  • Reports of human rights abuses, including sexual violence, by armed groups in eastern DRC are widespread and deeply concerning (Source: UK statement at the UN Security Council).
  • 1,000s of civilians have been displaced due to conflicts in eastern DRC (implicitly mentioned in the UK statement).

Sources:

  • Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Aug 22, 2025)

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