United States Deeply Concerned by DRC’s Expulsion of MONUSCO Human Rights Officer
Press Statement
Deputy Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
The United States is deeply concerned by the decision of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Government to expel the Director of the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO) in the DRC because of a report the UNJHRO released alleging serious violations by some members of the DRC security forces that resulted in 9 deaths and 32 enforced disappearances. We strongly urge the DRC Government to reverse its decision.
The United Nations plays a vital role in contributing to the security and well-being of the Congolese people, including through MONUSCO, its humanitarian operations, and its support for good governance, democracy, and human rights. MONUSCO is specifically mandated by the UN Security Council to prepare regular reports on the status of human rights in the DRC. The United States reaffirms its strong support for the work of the UN and its commitment to fight against impunity for violations of human rights.
We urge the DRC Government to investigate the allegations of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances by some members of its security forces highlighted in the UNJHRO report and to hold those responsible to account.