Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported Jan. 17 that the European Union's insufficient action regarding Rwanda's support of the M23 rebels has exacerbated the violence and atrocities in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

On Feb. 13, the European Parliament adopted a resolution urging the EU to freeze direct budget support to Rwanda until it ceases backing the Tutsi-led M23 rebels and permits humanitarian access in rebel-held territory of the DRC. The resolution also recommended suspending agreements related to Rwandan strategic minerals until Rwanda halts its interference in Congo. However, this resolution is non-binding, and the European Commission has not enforced these recommendations.

HRW emphasized that the EU's inaction undermines efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and deepens the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region. The M23 rebels, with apparent Rwandan support, have seized key cities in eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu, leading to mass displacement and severe human rights abuses. Reports have documented brutal acts such as the execution of children and the rape of women in front of their families.

The EU has expressed concern over the situation. In a statement on Jan. 25, the European Council condemned the M23's advance and Rwanda's alleged military presence in the DRC, labeling the rebel offensive a violation of international law and the DRC's sovereignty. The statement called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged Rwanda to withdraw its support for the M23.

Despite these statements, HRW criticized the EU for not taking concrete actions, such as suspending financial aid or imposing sanctions, to pressure Rwanda into compliance. The organization warned that without tangible measures, the cycle of violence and impunity in eastern DRC is likely to continue, further endangering civilian lives and regional stability.

HRW called on the EU to match its rhetoric with action by implementing the European Parliament's recommendations and ensuring that aid to Rwanda is contingent upon the cessation of support to armed groups in the DRC. The organization also urged the international community to prioritize the protection of human rights and the enforcement of accountability mechanisms to address the ongoing crisis.

From JURIST, Feb. 17. Used with permission.

Note: In February 2024, the EU signed an agreemen with Rwanda aimed at boosting the country's mining sector and contributing to the "transition towards a greener, more sustainable global economy," with an emphasis on such strategic mierals as tantalum, tungsten, gold and niobium. (Xinhua)

See our last reports on the M23 insurgency the struggle for the region's mineral wealth.