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Mr President
New Zealand is deeply concerned about the human rights abuses and deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Grave human rights violations against civilians have been committed by all parties in the current conflict of the DRC. The resurgence of violence in the eastern region has led to a rapidly escalating humanitarian crisis. The targeted attacks against the civilian population, sexual violence, recruitment of child soldiers, summary executions, and forced removal of the civilian population from their homes all continue to be matters of serious concern.
These abuses have been committed by all sides in the conflict, from state security forces, to rebel groups such as the CNDP, and militias associated with the Congolese government. New Zealand stands with other members of the international community in expressing its extreme concern at such behaviour. New Zealand notes the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court to investigate and prosecute war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide committed in the territory of the DRC or by DRC nationals since 1 July 2002. We urge all of those involved to support and work together with the DRC authorities, in particular in the execution of the arrest warrant issued by the ICC against Bosco Ntaganda who continues to play an active role in the current conflict in North Kivu.
The international community has called on all parties immediately to respect a ceasefire and return to a process seeking a negotiated settlement, as well as ensuring immediate access to the civilian population in order that humanitarian agencies are able to provide critical services.
We welcome the recently authorised temporary increase in personnel for the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC), under UNSC Resolution 1843. New Zealand strongly supports the mandate that MONUC has been tasked with in helping to restore peace and protect civilians.
Finally, we strongly urge all of those involved in the conflict to comply fully with their legal obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, human rights law and refugee law.
Thank you Mr President.
