On March 17, 2025, the Council of the European Union announced that it designated nine individuals and one entity under the Democratic Republic of the Congo (“DRC”) sanctions regime. The designations were imposed for their alleged participation in actions that constitute serious human rights violations and abuses in the DRC; contribute to the DRC’s instability or insecurity; sustain the armed conflict in the DRC or support the conflict through the exploitation or trade of natural resources. The designations were imposed by the Council following its adoption of Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2025/510. Among the designees are five senior leaders of the March 23 Movement (“M23”), a UN sanctioned non-governmental armed group that operates in Eastern DRC and is responsible for sustaining the country’s armed conflict through acts of violence, including killings, attacks and sexual violence against civilians. The designations also include members of the Rwanda Defence Force (“RDF”) involved in the armed conflict and members of Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (“RMB”) engaged in the exploitation and trade of natural resources.
Individuals and entities listed under the DRC sanctions regime are subject to travel bans and asset freezes in the European Union. EU operators are also prohibited from making funds available to listed persons.
Council of the EU Press Release | Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2025/510