This report reviews the state of fundamental freedoms and restrictions on civic space, with a focus on freedom of peaceful assembly and demonstration, freedom of expression and freedom of the press, and the constant climate of threats against human rights defenders, which hinders the defence of human rights. It then looks at the fragile legal and institutional framework, which is inadequate to meet the crucial challenges of protecting human rights defenders. The recently adopted law on the protection and responsibility of human rights defenders lacks any effective application, while other laws, such as that on digital technology, hinder fundamental freedoms and the defence of human rights. The decision to lift the moratorium on the death penalty carries additional risks for defenders, and the “accelerated” withdrawal of the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) will have repercussions for their security, as the situation in the east deteriorates. Finally, the report highlights the shortcomings of the judicial system in DRC: the Congolese justice system is beset by numerous failings, fostering a climate of widespread impunity for serious crimes committed against human rights defenders.
