Journalists in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have been experiencing heightened violence and intimidation amidst the ongoing conflict, as highlighted by a recent statement from Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The M23 armed group, backed by Rwanda, has been expanding its control over significant portions of the region since 2021. This area, known for its abundant natural resources, has been plagued by conflict for the past three decades.
The M23, infamous for stifling dissenting opinions, seized control of key cities like Goma in January 2025 and Bukavu in February 2025, establishing a parallel administration in these territories. RSF conducted interviews with journalists in eastern DRC who revealed significant changes in their working conditions following the capture of Goma.
RSF disclosed that at least eight journalists have been unlawfully detained by the M23 or the regular army’s military intelligence for extended periods. Shockingly, two journalists were held captive in makeshift jails created from converted containers where dozens of detainees were cramped together, as documented in a recent RSF report.
Moreover, the M23 has subjected at least four journalists to “ideological training,” censored content on local radio stations, and imposed specific narratives on them. In a concerning development, the government has accused journalists of having affiliations with the M23 and Rwanda, further exacerbating the hostile environment for media personnel.
The country’s High Council for Audiovisual and Communication (CSAC) has been criticized by RSF for its censorship-like decisions that shape the narrative surrounding the conflict. The fall of Goma has led to an upsurge in misinformation propagated by both conflicting parties, according to the NGO.
Disturbingly, approximately 90 journalists from South Kivu and North Kivu provinces were compelled to abandon their residences between 2023 and early 2025 due to the escalating threats and dangers they faced, as reported by the National Union of the Congolese Press.