The United Nations faces mounting financial challenges that are severely limiting the operational effectiveness of its independent investigation commission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s restive eastern provinces.
funding shortfalls disrupt critical investigations in north and south kivu
The Commission of Inquiry on human rights violations in North Kivu and South Kivu—established by the UN Human Rights Council in February 2025—has encountered significant operational hurdles due to budget constraints. During its first mission in Kinshasa, the commission conducted extensive consultations with government officials, civil society representatives, victims’ advocates, and international partners. However, planned field visits to conflict-affected areas, including Goma, remain postponed due to ongoing security threats and logistical obstacles.
The financial shortfalls have directly affected the commission’s ability to deploy investigative teams, secure translation services, and maintain continuous field presence. “The broader financial constraints facing the UN have severely impacted our operational capacity,” admitted Arnauld Akodjenou, chair of the commission. “Our ability to deploy, gather evidence, and ensure witness protection has been critically undermined.”
urgent need for humanitarian access amid rising abuses
The commission’s mandate includes investigating alleged human rights violations, gender-based violence, and war crimes committed since January 2025. Over the past six months, it has documented nearly 2,000 human rights violations and 260 cases of sexual violence, with armed groups like the M23 identified as primary perpetrators. Akodjenou emphasized the need for unhindered humanitarian access, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
Humanitarian workers, medical personnel, and protection actors must be guaranteed safe passage to reach affected communities, especially in the context of ongoing Ebola response efforts. The commission also called for protection against intimidation or retaliation for victims, witnesses, and human rights defenders cooperating with UN mechanisms.
mandate and next steps despite adversity
Adopted by the UN Human Rights Council, the commission’s mandate requires establishing facts, preserving evidence, identifying perpetrators, and addressing root causes of violence. Despite financial constraints, the commission remains committed to fulfilling its duties with independence and rigor. “The suffering we are witnessing demands rigorous investigation and sustained international engagement,” Akodjenou stated.
The commission has scheduled additional consultations and intends to return to the field as soon as conditions permit. Meanwhile, the UN continues to advocate for additional resources to ensure the commission can operate effectively and deliver on its critical mandate.