The United Nations has confirmed child executions and hospital attacks by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern Congo’s escalating conflict. Volker Türk, UN Human Rights Chief, revealed Tuesday that militants wielded weapons while occupying Bukavu – their second major city seized this month – compounding what experts call “the world’s largest humanitarian emergency.”
Over 20 bodies surfaced in Bukavu Tuesday as M23 tightens control of mineral-rich territories.
“Children were executed summarily and armed during the takeover,”stated Türk, referencing confirmed atrocities. This follows their May capture of Goma, where 3,000 died and thousands fled violence.
The crisis involves:
- 6+ million displaced since fighting began
- 100+ armed groups battling for cobalt/copper resources
- 4,000 Rwandan troops allegedly supporting M23
Rwanda denies involvement, instead accusing Congo of collaborating with Hutu genocidaires. Analysts argue M23’s “state-building” rhetoric masks regional resource grabs, with rebels now seeking political dominance rather than temporary control.
UN investigators recently launched a commission to address escalating war crimes, including systematic rape and executions. Though Congo’s army also faces child recruitment claims, experts stress M23’s rapid territorial gains reveal unprecedented foreign backing.
With global tech firms reliant on Congolese minerals, the conflict’s economic roots grow increasingly untenable. Türk urged immediate ceasefire talks before “an entire generation becomes collateral.”
