Content_paragraphs:  I remain concerned by recent reports of human rights violations, including cases 
  
  of sexual and gender-based violence, perpetrated by Congolese security forces. I 
  
  welcome the steps taken by the Congolese military justice authorities to prosecute 
  
  perpetrators of serious crimes committed by members of FARDC and the national 
  
  police, which is crucial to building trust and confidence in the country’s security 
  
  forces. Early and credible investigations by national authorities into these violations 
  
  and the payment of reparations to victims of sexual violence are critical to ensure 
  
  accountability. I also welcome the progress made in the arrests of those allegedly 
  
  involved in the killing of Ms. Catalán and Mr. Sharp in 2017. The progressive 
  
  strengthening of civilian justice institutions, in particular their independence and 
  
  capacity to process serious crimes, is also a critical component of efforts to address 
  
  the root causes of violence in the areas of the country still affected by armed conflict 
  
  and to build the foundations for lasting peace and security in the provinces 
  
  transitioning to a post-conflict phase.  
  
  https://undocs.org/en/S/RES/2502(2019)
  
  
  S/2020/554 
   
  
   
  
  20-07645 16/17