M23 and Executions: The Bloodiest Face of the Conflict in Eastern Congo

3rd June 2025

2 minutes read

M23 and Executions: The Bloodiest Face of the Conflict in Eastern Congo

A recent Human Rights Watch report has sparked a fresh wave of international concern, revealing that the March 23 Movement (M23) executed 21 civilians in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The concern extends beyond the nature of the violations to the troubling direction the conflict is taking.

According to the report, the victims were executed in cold blood over just two days last February. Some bodies were found discarded near construction sites close to army camps, while others were shot while attempting to escape mass arrests.

These acts appear not to be isolated incidents but rather part of a systematic and organized use of violence, in clear violation of the laws of war and human rights standards.

Violence as a Tool of Control

The executions seem to form part of a broader strategy employed by M23 to assert control through mass intimidation, particularly in neighborhoods and regions previously held by the Congolese army.

The timing was also significant, coinciding with a major escalation of violence in which the group seized control of the cities of Goma and Bukavu, resulting in the deaths of thousands and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians.

External Accusations

The Congolese government and international organizations have repeatedly accused Rwanda of supporting M23 through military supplies and political or logistical backing. Rwanda has vehemently denied the allegations, framing the conflict as an internal Congolese matter stemming from Kinshasa’s failure to address local tensions.

Despite Kigali’s denials, several UN reports have cited indirect evidence of organized support — particularly given the rapid increase in M23’s military capabilities and armament. Nevertheless, these allegations require a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation to uncover the full truth.

Lack of Deterrence and Growing Fear

The lack of decisive regional and international action to curb the expansion of M23 is fostering a climate of impunity. Since the start of 2025, numerous reports of abuse have accumulated without tangible deterrent measures being taken.

Human rights organizations fear that summary executions may become a recurring practice, especially in a context where trust between civilians and armed groups has collapsed, and the UN peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO) fails to provide effective protection.

Human Rights Watch has stressed that commanders and fighters responsible must be held criminally accountable. This is not only a moral imperative but also a political and security necessity to prevent similar atrocities from occurring in other parts of the country.