Application of the state of siege in Ituri: Consequences and Assessment

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly in its eastern part, has been affected by almost endemic insecurity for several decades, despite the actions of the administrative authorities and the Congolese defense and security forces (FARDC and PNC), with the multifaceted support of MONUSCO. Tensions and inter-community conflicts, as well as conflicts linked to the predation of natural resources in several territories, particularly in the east of the country, are at the root of various atrocities, with civilians paying the heaviest price. These various factors have led to the formation and activism of numerous armed groups, whose composition often has ethnic overtones. These armed groups are multiplying their attacks not only against the positions of defense and security forces, but also, and to a significantly greater extent, against localities, followed by atrocities against the civilian populations living there. These attacks and incursions lead to serious human rights violations.