In a context marked by the persistence of violence, human rights violations, the spread of hate speech and the proliferation of disinformation, the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO) continued, in 2025, its efforts alongside Congolese authorities and national partners to strengthen the protection of individuals, consolidate the rule of law and promote reforms.
Protecting the public space
The year 2025 was marked by increased pressure on certain civic actors. UNJHRO received 621 requests for individual protection – a record – and provided emergency protection assistance to 328 eligible individuals (out of 462), including 252 human rights defenders and 76 journalists, as well as 542 dependents. This action contributed to preserving the public space and enabling civic voices to continue expressing themselves in safe conditions.
In addition, in order to strengthen accountability and support more effective judicial efforts, the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office supported the updating of provincial case-prioritization strategies in Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Kasai and Kasai-Central, bringing the number of priority cases under follow-up to 85. This approach aims to direct efforts towards the most structuring and sensitive cases, while improving the coherence of judicial action.
Protection of victims and witnesses
Consolidating reforms
In its continued efforts to combat impunity and prepare for continuity beyond transitional phases, UNJHRO contributed throughout the past year to the support of two joint programmes: the Police Reform Support Programme (2024–2028), which includes an outcome on combating impunity, and the Justice Reform Support Programme (2025–2029), co-led by UNJHRO. These frameworks aim to strengthen institutions and ensure that progress is sustained over time.
« Living better together »
The prevention of violence also depends on social cohesion. In 2025, the “Living Better Together” campaign was disseminated in several languages and relayed by more than 60 community radio stations, reaching 1,250 direct participants through workshops and discussions. The dissemination of this campaign through multiple communication channels had a significant impact: 1.2 million views on digital platforms, more than 9 million people reached through traditional media, and an estimated audience of 29 million people through materials displayed in major cities. This approach helped reinforce messages of peace and cohesion in the face of rumours and social divisions.
Promoting due diligence
-Joël Bofengo
