United Nations human rights experts have called for an immediate end to what they describe as the “reign of terror”perpetrated by the M23 armed group in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), citing widespread reports of sexual violence, torture, arbitrary detention, and killings of civilians.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the experts said rape, gang rape, violent assaults, and the murder of civilians have become common features of the group’s operations since its resurgence in 2021.
They alleged that M23 has established a de facto administration in areas under its control, where civilians are reportedly subjected to arbitrary arrests, forced labour, forced recruitment, torture—including sexual torture—and extortion.
The experts also raised concerns over the operation of unofficial detention centres, where detainees are allegedly held in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions without adequate food, water, or medical care. Reports indicate that several detainees have died in custody, while others were released only after relatives paid ransom.
The UN experts urged all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and ensure those responsible for human rights violations are held accountable.
They also called for the revival of the US-mediated ceasefire agreement signed between the Congolese government and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in December 2025, describing dialogue as essential to restoring peace and stability in the conflict-ridden region.
