UN: Escalating Violence in Eastern DRC Forcing Thousands to Flee

The United Nations (UN) has raised concerns over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as escalating violence forces thousands to flee to neighboring countries under harsh conditions.

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) reported on Thursday that 35,000 Congolese refugees have arrived in Burundi since early February, as M23 rebels—allegedly backed by Rwanda—continue their military advances in South and North Kivu.

Many refugees are crossing into Burundi through illegal routes, often risking their lives to navigate the treacherous Ruzizi River, according to UNHCR official Olga Sarrado.

The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) warned of increasing lawlessness after convicted warlords, including rapists, were reportedly freed from prisons in Goma, Kabare, and Bukavu.

Patrice Vahard, Director of the UN Joint Human Rights Office in DRC (UNJHRO), condemned the development: “The consequences will be huge—first for the rule of law, but particularly for the women who believed in justice and now risk facing their tormentors again.”

The UN World Food Programme (WFP) announced that it has partially resumed food aid in areas of Goma that were overrun by M23 rebels three weeks ago.

So far, 9,000 people in North Kivu have received emergency food assistance, out of a target of 83,000.

Goma International Airport remains closed, and key supply routes are blocked, making it difficult for aid workers to reach those in dire need.

UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) has relocated its fleet to Kalemie, Tanganyika, as an alternative base for operations in eastern DRC.

So far this year, UNHAS has transported 2,464 passengers, including relief workers evacuated from Goma and Bukavu.