UN Human Rights Council 62: UK Statement for the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the Democratic Republic of the Congo

UN Human Rights Council 62: UK Statement for the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the Democratic Republic of the Congo
UK Statement for the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Delivered at the 62nd Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Thank you, Mr Vice President.
The UK welcomes the Commission of Inquiry’s initial deployments and thanks the Commissioners for their update. We underline the importance of the Commission’s work continuing without further delay and welcome the Democratic Republic of Congo’s engagement so far.
We remain gravely concerned by the ongoing human rights situation in eastern DRC. Widespread violations and abuses continue, committed by all parties to the conflict. The scale of conflict-related sexual violence is appalling. We remind all parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law and underline that perpetrators of any violations must be held to account.
Mr Vice President, the Ebola spread threatens to intensify an already severe human rights crisis in eastern DRC, driving displacement and fuelling instability. Rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access is more urgent than ever to contain the spread. Continued conflict will disrupt the response.
The UK calls on all parties to immediately cease hostilities and implement all ceasefire commitments.
Humanitarian personnel and material must be able to move unhindered across eastern DRC and regionally. All humanitarian responses must remain civilian-led, and we urge all parties across the region to cooperate on an effective response.
Thank you.