Overview

• M23 is accused of summary executions, torture, enforced disappearances, forced recruitment and systematic sexual violence, including gang rape used to terrorize civilians.
• Investigators say the rebel group received training and operational support from Rwanda’s military, with credible allegations of covert RDF personnel, which Kigali denies.
• Congo’s army and allied militias such as Wazalendo are cited for gang rape, deliberate killings of civilians and looting, with the report saying Kinshasa and Kigali bear responsibility for supporting abusive groups.
• UN rights chief Volker Türk called the atrocities horrific and pressed for prompt, independent accountability, as the Human Rights Council prepares to consider the findings and OHCHR backs a Commission of Inquiry.
• The conflict escalated since late 2024, including M23’s seizure of Goma in January, leaving thousands dead and millions displaced as Qatar-brokered talks missed an August deadline to start negotiations.