Human Rights Council 40: Democratic Republic of the Congo
The UK expressed its concern about restrictions to democratic space in the DRC, including the intimidation of journalists and internet shut downs following the recent elections.
Mr President
The UK thanks the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for their report.
The UK shares the OHCHR concern that the elections took place in an environment increasingly restrictive of democratic space. Of particular concern is the excessive use of force, including lethal force, mass arrests and intimidation tactics deployed by the state towards protesters and members of the opposition undertaking campaign activities. The UK urges the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo to ensure the police, armed forces and state security agents operate according to the highest international standards, and bring those responsible for human rights violations and abuses to justice.
The UK notes the President’s inauguration pledge to improve human rights, strengthen democracy and deliver peace and stability to the country. As a first step, the UK urges the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo to ensure delayed elections in Beni, Butembo and Yumi are conducted in a transparent, inclusive and peaceful environment. In this same spirit, we continue to urge the DRC’s electoral commission to publish its data as soon as possible.
Freedom of expression and media are essential qualities of any functioning democracy, allowing information to flow freely and independently. The UK notes with concern that following the elections, internet access, mobile data and SMS services were shut down for a lengthy period. Journalists continued to be subjected to intimidation and harassment or prevented from independent reporting.
We would like to ask the Assistant Secretary General for his views on what steps the government of Democratic Republic of Congo should take to open up political space, recognise peoples’ right to peaceful assembly and support freedom of expression?
Thank you Mr President.