UN reports M23-linked attacks on journalists in eastern DRC

Attacks on journalists in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are raising new concerns about press freedom, after a recent documented continued abuses linked to armed groups operating in the region.

According to the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO), at least seven violations affecting civic space were recorded in February 2026, resulting in nine victims. While this marks a decline from January figures, the report highlights a persistent pattern of intimidation and violence against media workers, particularly in South Kivu.

The findings point to growing restrictions on journalism in areas under the control of the AFC/M23 rebel group. The UN says journalists have been abducted or targeted for reporting without authorization from local authorities aligned with the group, underscoring how armed control is shaping access to information in conflict zones.

This trend is echoed in a recent study by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), which describes the Great Lakes region as increasingly hostile to independent journalism. The report documents arrests, detentions, and attacks across multiple countries, with eastern DRC identified as one of the most affected areas.

RSF also cites allegations that some journalists were detained in inhumane conditions in Goma, including confinement in poorly ventilated containers. While these claims are based on witness accounts and remain contested, they add to broader concerns about the treatment of detainees and the risks faced by media professionals.

Additional reporting from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) indicates that pressure on journalists is coming from multiple actors, including armed groups and authorities, as the conflict intensifies. In some cases, rebel forces have reportedly taken control of broadcasting facilities, further tightening control over information flows.

The implications extend beyond individual safety. Restrictions on journalists limit public access to verified information, weaken accountability, and increase the risk of misinformation in already volatile environments. This is particularly significant in eastern DRC, where ongoing tensions and armed activity continue to shape both security and governance.

M23 has denied allegations of targeting journalists, with its spokesperson dismissing the claims as unfounded. However, rights organizations warn that the broader environment for media in the region has deteriorated, with many journalists fleeing or operating under severe constraints.

Across the wider Great Lakes region, RSF classifies press freedom conditions as ranging from “difficult” to “very serious,” reflecting systemic challenges including legal restrictions, economic pressure, and unresolved cases of violence against journalists.