The 59th Session of the Human Rights Council, Item 2: Enhanced interactive dialogue on oral update of Fact Finding Mission on eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Statement by Ambassador OIKE Atsuyuki (16 June 2025)

　Thank you, Mr. Vice-President.

   Japan expresses its appreciation for the update on the human rights situation in eastern DRC. Japan considers it important that the FFM deliver concrete results in a timely and impartial manner in line with its mandate. The Mission must ensure accountability for human rights abuses and serious violations of international humanitarian law.

   Japan is deeply concerned by the devastating human rights situation in eastern DRC, where violence and insecurity have hampered humanitarian access to the conflict-affected areas. Civilians, especially women and girls, face an alarming level of risk of trafficking, exploitation, and conflict-related sexual violence. Threats to school security are acute as thousands of children are no longer in education. Once again, we call for all parties to the conflict to unconditionally respect human rights and international humanitarian law. The international community must act collectively to ensure respect for the protection of civilians in eastern DRC, including women and children. 

   In this respect, multiple peace efforts and initiatives through political consultations are ongoing. We reiterate our call for the active engagement by all parties to accelerate these political consultations in order to achieve a lasting, peaceful solution to the conflict.

   Japan remains fully committed to working with the international community to advance human rights and peace and security in eastern DRC.

   I thank you.