DRC elected to the UN Human Rights Council: a controversial diplomatic victory

On 10 October 2024, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was elected to serve on the United Nations Human Rights Council , with 172 votes out of 190 voters. The election marks a diplomatic victory for the Congolese government, but it is also the subject of criticism due to the human rights situation in the country. With this election, the DRC joins four other African countries, Kenya , Ethiopia , Benin and The Gambia , which also won a seat on the Council.

An election under fire from critics

Although Kinshasa sees this election as an opportunity to strengthen its human rights efforts, including improving the conditions of vulnerable populations, international NGOs such as Human Rights Watch and international observers have expressed concern. Critics point to the numerous human rights violations committed by Congolese security forces, particularly in the east of the country. One of the most notable events remains the killing of 57 civilians in Goma in 2023 , attributed to Congolese security forces. This election therefore raises questions about the legitimacy of the DRC to sit on a body that is supposed to promote human rights.

The stakes for the Congolese government

Human Rights Minister Chantal Shambu Mwavita said the election provides an important platform for the DRC to continue its efforts to combat abuses and protect vulnerable populations, despite the many challenges the country faces. She hopes the DRC can use the seat to restore its international credibility on human rights issues.

However, there is criticism from some countries, including the United States , who believe that the election of the DRC to the Council could compromise the very mission of the institution. They also denounce prison overcrowding, arbitrary arrests of activists and alarming detention conditions, particularly at the Makala central prison in Kinshasa.

A path strewn with pitfalls for the DRC

Despite this diplomatic victory, the DRC will have to meet the high expectations of the international community. Its seat on the Human Rights Council will be closely scrutinized, and the Congolese government will have to demonstrate its willingness to reform the security sector and improve its management of human rights. The DRC will have the difficult task of regaining the trust of skeptics, while managing internal tensions, particularly in conflict zones where armed groups continue to commit atrocities.