CONGO — Human Rights Watch (HRW) has reported that the March 23 Movement (M23), an armed group operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), executed at least 21 civilians in the Kasika neighborhood of Goma on February 22–23, 2025. Among the victims were adult men, a woman, and a 15-year-old boy. Some were shot in the head, while others were found dead at a construction site. According to GhanaWeb, HRW attributes the killings to M23’s efforts to tighten control over strategic urban areas.
Background on M23’s Resurgence
Primarily composed of Tutsi fighters, M23 resumed military operations in eastern DRC in late 2021 after a period of dormancy. The group has since taken control of major cities including Goma and Bukavu. Their territorial gains have been accompanied by significant civilian displacement, growing casualties, and reports of systematic abuses.
Documented Human Rights Violations
HRW, Amnesty International, and the United Nations have all documented a series of violations attributed to M23. These include:
- Summary executions of civilians, including children in Bukavu.
- Sexual violence, forced labor, and abductions.
- Hospital raids: Over 130 individuals, including injured civilians and soldiers, were abducted from medical facilities in Goma, with reports of torture.
- Attacks on humanitarian infrastructure, including warehouses and medical sites.
- Threats against judicial authorities attempting to investigate the group’s activities.
The United Nations Office in Geneva confirmed multiple cases of children being executed and reported escalating threats to aid workers and justice officials.
International Condemnation and Political Tensions
The United Nations Human Rights Council formally condemned Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebels. It also called for an immediate halt to human rights violations by both M23 and Rwandan defense forces. An independent commission of inquiry has been established to further investigate the group’s actions.
Adding political complexity, former Congolese President Joseph Kabila—whom the current government accuses of aiding M23—recently appeared in Goma. He has expressed interest in contributing to peace negotiations, but his presence has further polarized opinion within the country.
Humanitarian Crisis
The ongoing conflict has displaced more than 700,000 people in Goma alone, as of February 3, 2025. The broader region continues to suffer from instability, compounding the humanitarian emergency. Access to food, medical services, and safe shelter remains severely limited.
Final Thoughts
The situation in eastern DRC remains volatile, with human rights watchdogs calling for international accountability and sustained protection for civilians. As peace talks stall and armed groups tighten their grip on strategic areas, humanitarian agencies warn that the crisis is deepening and urgently needs global attention.
