Human Rights Council 39: UK Statement on the Democratic Republic of the Congo
The UK expressed its concerns regarding the human rights situation in the DRC and called for those involved in abuses, carried out by armed groups and defence forces, to be brought to justice.
Thank you, Mr President, The deterioration of the human rights situation across the Democratic Republic of Congo is deeply troubling. We call on the Government to bring those responsible for human rights violations and abuses to justice and to respect civil and political rights, including in the lead up to elections in December.
Free, fair and credible elections are essential to a more stable political, security and economic situation. While we recognise and welcome the steps taken by the DRC Government, including voter registration and the publication of the presidential candidate list, we call on the Government to continue taking positive steps, including by opening the political space and respecting civil and political rights.
The resurgence of violations and abuses linked to armed groups and the defence and security forces in conflict-affected areas is deeply concerning. It is vital that those responsible are brought to justice. We welcome the international investigation, mandated at HRC38, into human rights abuses and violations in DRC. This team needs to be able to work independently and to international standards, whilst being allowed unhindered and continuous access.
Mr President,
While noting with concern the increase in sexual violence-related violations and abuses in DRC, we echo the High Commissioner’s recognition of the DRC Government’s efforts to combat impunity and sexual violence. We would welcome her assessment of the Government’s efforts to implement the recommendations of the joint commission’s investigation into violations and abuses committed in connection with the demonstrations of 31 December 2017 and 21 January 2018.
Thank you.