Conflict in Eastern Congo Escalates as M23 Advances Toward Bukavu

The UN warns of worsening violence and humanitarian crisis as the M23 and Rwandan forces push deeper into South Kivu, displacing thousands and leaving nearly 3,000 dead since late January.

The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwandan forces, has launched a new offensive in South Kivu, days after seizing Goma in North Kivu.
The conflict has caused nearly 3,000 deaths and displaced over 500,000 people since January, according to the UN, with reports of severe human rights violations, including sexual violence and forced recruitment of children.
Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, is bracing for a potential attack, with residents fleeing, businesses shuttering, and schools suspending classes as fear grips the city of one million people.
The UN Human Rights Council is convening today to discuss launching an international investigation into alleged atrocities committed by all parties in the conflict.
Regional and international efforts, including a summit in Dar es Salaam involving Congolese and Rwandan leaders, aim to de-escalate tensions, though previous diplomatic attempts have failed to halt the violence.

Courrier International