Story perspectives

HRW Reports Rwanda-Backed M23 Child-Soldier Abuse, Urges Sanctions

6/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

HRW released a report documenting roundups, recruitment and child-soldier use by the Rwanda-backed M23 in eastern Congo.
The rebels detained civilians, police and soldiers at Rumangabo and Tshanzu camps in North Kivu.
Detainees suffered beatings, lacked food, water and medical care, and were executed or died through December 2025.
HRW urged the United Nations, African Union, European Union and United States to review aid to Rwanda and sanction officials responsible.

1 of 1

Story summary

HRW released a report documenting roundups, recruitment and child-soldier use by the Rwanda-backed M23 in eastern Congo.
The rebels detained civilians, police and soldiers at Rumangabo and Tshanzu camps in North Kivu.
Detainees suffered beatings, lacked food, water and medical care, and were executed or died through December 2025.
HRW urged the United Nations, African Union, European Union and United States to review aid to Rwanda and sanction officials responsible.