Human rights defenders in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are facing grave danger, including reprisals, enforced disappearances, and torture, a UN expert warned on Wednesday, urging immediate support for their relocation.
Mary Lawlor, the UN special rapporteur on human rights defenders, expressed deep concern over the growing threats against activists in the conflict-ridden region, where the Rwanda-backed M23 group has taken control of key cities such as Goma and Bukavu.
Lawlor cautioned that those exposing human rights violations during the ongoing violence have become direct targets. She cited credible reports of M23 fighters compiling lists of activists to detain in areas under their control, with some already being held incommunicado or tortured.
At least six human rights defenders have gone missing while attempting to flee Goma, she added. The dangers have escalated following mass prison breakouts in eastern DRC, where convicted war criminals and militia leaders are now threatening those who helped bring them to justice.
Lawlor also highlighted the particular dangers faced by women activists, who are vulnerable to conflict-related sexual violence. She urged urgent international intervention to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
“The international community must recognise our collective responsibility to support these defenders before it is too late,” she said.
