South kivu faces escalating threats against activists and journalists

The South Kivu region in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is grappling with a surge in targeted threats, intimidation, and abductions directed at social activists, human rights defenders, and journalists. These alarming developments, reported by multiple local organizations, coincide with ongoing armed clashes near the borders with Rwanda and Burundi.

Civil society under siege in South Kivu

Local civil society actors paint a grim picture of their working conditions. Intimidation tactics now include anonymous calls, surveillance, nighttime raids, and brief disappearances—all aimed at silencing dissent. Several human rights advocates have adjusted their routines, with some temporarily relocating from Bukavu and surrounding areas to avoid exposure.

This worsening climate occurs against a backdrop of deepening instability. Clashes between the FARDC, local armed groups, and the M23 rebels—allegedly backed by Rwanda—have displaced thousands. In territories like Kalehe, Uvira, and Fizi, community organizations play a vital role in monitoring, delivering aid, and advocating for vulnerable populations. Their growing vulnerability directly undermines their ability to report abuses to national and international bodies.

Abductions and intimidation: a disturbing pattern

Recent cases reveal a chilling modus operandi. Activists are abducted in broad daylight by armed individuals, often in plainclothes and unmarked vehicles. While some are later released, they frequently receive explicit warnings to halt investigations, retract reports, or leave the region. Many organizations highlight the lack of accountability, as investigations rarely lead to arrests.

Local media is also feeling the squeeze. Community radio stations, long at the forefront of covering intercommunal tensions and human rights violations, are scaling back coverage due to self-censorship. Correspondents report pressure from political figures, security officials, and armed group representatives controlling parts of the territory. The line between targeted intimidation and systemic harassment is fading fast.

Analysts warn that the shrinking civic space in South Kivu reflects a broader regional trend. Since renewed fighting in neighboring North Kivu, both provinces have seen tightening control by local authorities, security forces, and armed factions. The prolonged state of emergency in parts of eastern DRC has further eroded freedom of expression and assembly, drawing criticism from rights groups.

Kinshasa’s governance challenge

The Congolese government faces mounting pressure to act. While Kinshasa has pledged to protect human rights defenders—most recently through a 2023 law—implementation in the east remains weak. Limited resources and fragmented state authority on the ground have diluted its effectiveness. Civil society leaders in South Kivu are now demanding concrete action: independent probes into recent abductions, enhanced protection for at-risk activists, and structured dialogue with provincial authorities.

International partners, including the United Nations Stabilization Mission in DRC (MONUSCO)—now in withdrawal—and the European Union, are also under scrutiny. Their ability to sustain advocacy for civilian protection will play a key role in preserving the local associative fabric. Without clear political resolve from Kinshasa, however, the risk of a permanent weakening of civil society in eastern DRC grows. Rights groups are calling for urgent mobilization to reverse this alarming trend.