Overview

Continuing armed conflict and violence claimed thousands of lives, large-scale displacement and widespread sexual violence. At least 10 cases of crimes under international law were prosecuted by military courts, but impunity remained widespread. Economic, social, and humanitarian crises persisted, exacerbated by Covid-19 and other outbreaks. The use of arbitrary arrests and unlawful detentions was prevalent across the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Prison conditions remained inhumane. Rallies and protests organized by opposition parties or civil society deemed to be critical of the government were often banned or violently suppressed. Human rights defenders and journalists continued to be targeted with attacks and threats; at least three journalists were killed. Mining projects led to serious pollution with a considerable human rights impact. Children’s education was interrupted by teachers’ strikes over poor pay and working conditions.