Brief World News: Civilian Attacks in DR Congo, Conviction of Union Leader in Cambodia Raises Concern, Gang Violence in Haiti on the Rise

The escalating violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) North Kivu province has led to a massive exodus of people to the city of Goma, with over 500,000 displaced individuals seeking refuge. The camps in the neighbourhoods of Lac Vert and Mugunga near Goma have become overcrowded as the conflict continues to intensify.

UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq expressed deep concern over the situation, highlighting at least 11 incidents involving explosives reported since February in the region. Bintou Keita, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for DRC, condemned the violence against civilians and called on all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law to protect innocent lives.

Despite the volatile and insecure environment, humanitarian organizations and their partners are working tirelessly to provide assistance to those in need. However, additional funding is required to reach all affected individuals. The 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan seeking $2.6 billion is only 17% funded at $430 million, leaving a significant gap in resources needed to support 8.7 million people with humanitarian aid and protection.

In a separate development, the UN human rights office (OHCHR) expressed grave concern over the decision by Cambodia’s Supreme Court to uphold the conviction of trade union leader Chhim Sithar on charges of incitement to felony and disturbing social order. The OHCHR called for her immediate release and urged the Cambodian government to respect the rights of individuals to peaceful assembly and association, as enshrined in international law.

Meanwhile, in Haiti, the capital city of Port-au-Prince continues to be plagued by gang violence, forcing thousands of people to flee their homes. Recent attacks by armed gangs have resulted in widespread displacement, with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) activating its emergency tracking tool to monitor the situation. Humanitarian organizations are working to provide emergency food supplies and assistance to those affected by the violence, as heavy rains and flooding further exacerbate the crisis.