The recent capture of Goma by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels has sparked international concern and condemnation. Despite calls from the UN secretary-general to lay down their arms, the rebels have continued their advance, raising questions about the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
To shed light on the situation, FRANCE 24’s François Picard recently spoke with Daniel Levine-Spound, a Human Rights Lawyer and Researcher at the Harvard Law School International Human Rights Clinic. Levine-Spound compared the conflict in the DRC to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, highlighting the need for accountability and action from the international community.
According to Levine-Spound, the root cause of the escalating conflict lies in the world’s failure to hold Rwanda accountable for its role in supporting the M23 rebels. He emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying issues and ensuring that all parties involved are held responsible for their actions.
The situation in eastern Congo remains volatile, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence. As the conflict continues to unfold, it is essential for the international community to step up and take decisive action to bring about a peaceful resolution.
In the face of growing international pressure, the M23 rebels are seeking to shore up public support and maintain their grip on power. However, their actions have only served to further destabilize the region and exacerbate the suffering of the Congolese people.
As the world watches and waits for a resolution to the conflict in eastern Congo, it is clear that urgent action is needed to hold all parties accountable and ensure a lasting peace for the people of the region. Only through concerted efforts and a united front can the cycle of violence and instability be broken, paving the way for a brighter future for the people of the DRC.
