Human Rights Council 36th Session (11-29 September 2017)

Interactive dialogue on Democratic Republic of the Congo

Statement of Ireland

26 September 2017

Ireland aligns with the statement of the European Union.

Mr President,

Ireland thanks the High Commissioner for his presentation and the written report on the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Ireland is deeply alarmed at reports of mass graves, and the summary execution of hundreds of people in the Kasai provinces by the armed forces and members of the Kamuina Nsapu militia. Furthermore, the mass violence has led to the displacement of more than a million people, causing huge suffering and placing a massive strain on neighbouring countries. We urge the Government to ensure its security forces adhere strictly to international norms on the protection of civilians in any operations.

We also call on the Government to ensure allegations of serious human rights violations, including mass violence in the Kasai region, are investigated and prosecuted. In this regard, we welcome the appointment of an international team of experts on Kasai, and call on the Government to allow them and the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO) unimpeded access to fulfil their mandates.

Ireland is also extremely disappointed that the 31st December agreement has not been satisfactorily implemented. We call on the Government to fully commit to an inclusive process, end the attacks on and arrests of protesters, and to present a credible calendar for the electoral process. The repeated delays in holding elections undermines the democratic credibility of the Government, and the future stability of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region.

In addition, Ireland condemns the restriction in democratic space, in particular the prohibition on the right to assemble and protest. These are central pillars in any democracy, and should be restored.

Thank you