Tue Feb 18 12:02:12 UTC 2025: ## UN Condemns M23’s Summary Executions of Children in DR Congo
**Geneva, February 18, 2025** – The United Nations has condemned the summary execution of children by the M23 armed group, backed by Rwanda, in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The UN’s human rights office reported a sharp deterioration of the situation in eastern DRC, citing numerous serious human rights violations and abuses.
M23 fighters, following their seizure of Goma and subsequent advance into South Kivu, are accused of executing children after entering Bukavu last week. The UN also documented cases of ill-treatment, sexual violence, child recruitment, intimidation, and death threats. The situation is further exacerbated by prison breaks in Kabare and Bukavu, with victims and witnesses fearing retaliation from escaped prisoners.
The UN expressed serious concerns for the safety of lawyers, judicial staff, journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society members, many of whom have been threatened and forced to flee the area. Those remaining in Bukavu and Goma fear for their lives due to their outspoken condemnation of human rights abuses committed by the M23 and Rwanda. The UN called on both Rwanda and the M23 to respect human rights and international humanitarian law. The reports follow the dramatic takeover of Bukavu by the M23, leaving a trail of violence and uncertainty in its wake.
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