DR Congo Welcomes UN Rights Probe in North and South Kivu

Kinshasa, October 28, 2025 – The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has welcomed the appointment of members to the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the human rights situation in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu.

The announcement was made on October 27, 2025, by Ambassador Jürg Lauber (Switzerland), President of the UN Human Rights Council. The newly appointed members of the Commission include Mr. Arnauld Akodjenou (Benin), Ms. Maxine Marcus (Germany/United States), and Mr. Clément Nyaletsossi Voule (Togo).

Their nomination follows UN Human Rights Council Resolution S-37/1, adopted on February 7, 2025, during an extraordinary session addressing the deteriorating human rights situation in eastern DRC. The mandate was further reinforced by Resolution 60/22 of October 7, 2025, outlining the terms of implementation.

Unwavering Support from the Congolese Government

The DRC Government expressed its full support for the Commission’s mission, which is tasked with investigating serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law committed in the context of ongoing armed aggression. This includes abuses targeting women, children, displaced persons, and refugees, as well as potential acts constituting international crimes.

"The pursuit of justice and the fight against impunity remain national priorities," the Government reiterated, reaffirming its willingness to fully cooperate with the Commission in accordance with domestic law and international commitments.

Call for Immediate Field Deployment

The Government encouraged the Commission to begin its work in the field as soon as possible, in line with the Human Rights Council’s guidance, in order to document abuses based on the lived experiences of affected civilian populations.

A Vote for Truth and Peace

Finally, the DRC extended its gratitude to the UN Human Rights Council for its commitment to defending human rights and advancing historical truth, key components in restoring lasting peace, justice, and regional stability.