During its first mission to Kinshasa, the commission held extensive consultations with victims’ support organizations, human rights defenders, civil society actors, government representatives, UN entities, diplomats, and the national human rights institution. However, security and health challenges prevented access to Goma, a key city in the region.

The commission emphasized that while it remains committed to its mandate, funding shortages have directly impacted its ability to conduct investigations, provide interpretation services, access analytical support, fund field missions, and maintain a consistent presence in affected areas.

“The broader financial constraints facing the United Nations have directly affected our operational capacity, including deployable investigation teams, interpretation services, analytical support, mission funding, and sustained field presence. Despite these challenges, the commission remains fully committed to fulfilling its mandate with independence, rigor, and diligence. The suffering brought to our attention demands sustained attention, rigorous investigations, and resolute international engagement,” stated Arnauld Akodjenou, Chair of the Commission.

The commission underscored the obligation of all parties and actors with control or influence to facilitate safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access, particularly for women, children, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups.

It also stressed the need for humanitarian workers, medical personnel, and protection actors to safely access victims and affected communities, especially in the context of the Ebola response. The commission warned against intimidation, retaliation, or reprisals against any victims, witnesses, human rights defenders, journalists, or community representatives collaborating with UN mechanisms.

“The Council tasked the commission with establishing facts, preserving evidence, identifying responsible parties for prosecution, and examining the root causes of recurring violence. This work has begun. It is essential to protect the safety, dignity, and trust of victims and witnesses,” Akodjenou emphasized during the session.

The commission was established by the UN Human Rights Council on February 7, 2025, during an emergency session addressing the human rights situation in eastern DRC. Its mandate includes investigating alleged human rights violations, including those affecting women and children, gender-based violence, and crimes against displaced or refugee populations. It is also tasked with examining potential international crimes amid escalating hostilities that began in January 2025 in North and South Kivu.