The UK continues to monitor the security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its grave humanitarian consequences. We note the findings of the UN Group of Experts investigation into the situation in DRC. We are one of a few partners who have a permanent presence in Goma, despite the security challenges, and are regularly in touch with the Government, the UN peacekeeping mission MONUSCO and humanitarian partners where we receive first-hand accounts. We are the current chair of the International Contact Group for the Great Lakes where we work with likeminded partners to share reporting and support progress on the ground. We lobby the DRC Government to push for the imposition of sanctions, through the UN, against individuals who have committed human rights abuses, and on 19 June, announced new sanctions against perpetrators of sexual violence in conflict, sending a clear signal that the UK will hold accountable those responsible for these crimes.

We note the reported findings of the United Nations Group of Experts investigation into the situation in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) published on 16 December 2022. The report details abuses committed by multiple armed groups, including increased killings of civilians and attacks on UN peacekeepers. The UK remains committed to working with the DRC Government, the UN Peacekeeping Mission MONUSCO and regional partners to address the drivers of conflict, demobilise armed groups and support dialogue and conflict resolution mechanisms between local communities.