DR Congo human rights issues came to the forefront during a visit by Human Rights Watch executive director Philippe Bolopion, who called on senior Congolese officials to uphold freedom of expression, halt arbitrary arrests, and ensure accountability for human rights violations. His visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo occurred from May 17 to 21, 2026, amidst significant concerns regarding the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group’s presence in eastern Congo and a crackdown on journalists, activists, and political opposition figures. The resurgence of clandestine detention facilities in the capital city, Kinshasa, further exacerbates these concerns.