The M23 said the recruits included Congolese soldiers who surrendered when fighting escalated this year and the local militia members who fought with them, but rights groups fear that prisoners of war and children are being enlisted against their will.
Breakdown
- M23 paraded 7,000 new recruits, claiming they recently joined the group.
- Rights groups fear forced recruitment of prisoners of war and children. 8s
- A UN Human Rights Council report highlights ongoing concerns about forced enlistment. 34s
- Observers believe the recruitment drive suggests M23 is preparing for a prolonged conflict. 47s
- M23's recent offensives in North and South Kivu have overwhelmed government forces. 1m 28s