The President of the National Commission for Human Rights (CNDH) in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Paul Nsapu, has stated that the security situation in the country is the main factor threatening human rights. He made this statement during an interactive dialogue at the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva on October 3, 2026. The CNDH cited the ongoing conflicts in the eastern part of the country as a major concern.
According to Nsapu, the population in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to suffer greatly due to armed conflicts. The CNDH has documented numerous human rights abuses, including violations of the right to life, physical integrity, forced displacement, and sexual violence. The commission also reported that the procedures of the United Nations special procedures documented allegations of executions, torture, arbitrary detention, and violence against human rights defenders in 2026.
The CNDH president emphasized that the fight against impunity is a priority for the commission. Nsapu stated that his institution is encouraging the strengthening of independent investigations, prosecution of alleged perpetrators of serious human rights abuses, and protection of victims, witnesses, and human rights defenders. He stressed that it is essential to preserve civic space and fundamental freedoms.
Nsapu urged that the Democratic Republic of Congo should not be viewed solely through the lens of security crises. He called for the international community to support the country's efforts to build a state based on the rule of law and consolidate peace. The CNDH president emphasized that his institution is committed to working with national institutions, civil society, United Nations mechanisms, and regional and international partners.
The CNDH report highlighted that human rights abuses are particularly prevalent in areas affected by conflict. Nsapu cited the eastern regions as areas of concern, where populations are facing severe humanitarian challenges. The commission's findings indicate that the security situation in these areas remains a significant challenge to human rights.
The United Nations Human Rights Council session provided a platform for Nsapu to raise awareness about the human rights situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The CNDH president's statement underscored the need for international cooperation to address the country's security and human rights challenges. He encouraged the international community to support the country's efforts to promote and protect human rights.
The CNDH continues to work towards promoting and protecting human rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Nsapu reaffirmed the commission's commitment to collaborating with national and international stakeholders to address human rights challenges. The CNDH's efforts aim to promote a culture of human rights and accountability in the country.
Key points
- The security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo is the primary factor threatening human rights, according to the CNDH president.
- The CNDH is prioritizing the fight against impunity for human rights abuses.
- The international community is urged to support the Democratic Republic of Congo's efforts to build a state based on the rule of law and consolidate peace.
