Crisis in Eastern Congo: Displacement and Conflict Intensify

The U.N. refugee agency has expressed concern over the rapidly worsening situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Around 350,000 displaced individuals lack shelter as conflict escalates, with M23 rebels advancing. Displacement camps are destroyed, crime has increased, and disease risks grow amid inaccessible aid.

The United Nations refugee agency has raised alarms over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, citing escalating conflict that has left approximately 350,000 people without shelter.

In recent developments, the M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have seized Goma and are advancing further south, threatening to amplify the existing crisis. Many displacement camps have been destroyed, forcing people into makeshift accommodations like churches and hospitals.

The UNHCR highlights rising crime and growing disease threat, exacerbating the plight of the internally displaced. Meanwhile, the conflict sees no abatement as attacks by militias, such as CODECO, continue to cause casualties and displacement on a large scale.

(With inputs from agencies.)