M23 (Democratic Republic of Congo)

 

Background Information

The M23, or March 23rd Movement, was established under General Makenga Sultani in opposition to the peace treaty signed by the National Congress for the Defense of the People (CNDP) and the DRC government. The group, composed of members from the Tutsi ethnic group, aims to secure greater influence over the current Congolese government and greater security for Tutsi communities.

 

Source of Funding

Neighboring countries, including Rwanda and Uganda, have provided direct military support to M23 rebels through troop reinforcements, joint planning, and weapons deliveries. Additionally, the M23 has maintained an illicit trade of resources as another source of finance, selling gold, tin, and other minerals to dealers based out of Uganda.[1]

 

 

Other human rights violations

During its occupation of Goma, a highly populated city in eastern Congo, Human Rights Watch documented numerous cases of summary executions. Approximately 21 of these victims were civilians.[2] In addition, the organization cited a number of other violations by the M23, including rape, torture, and forcible recruitment of individuals into its military ranks.[2]

 

 

 

[1] UN, 2012

 

[2] HRW, 2013

 

Human Rights Watch, "DR Congo: War Crimes by M23, Congolese Army." February 5, 2013

 

UNSC, "Report of the Group of Experts on the Democratic Republic of the Congo." U.N.         Security Council. (2012).