DRC: the International Court of Justice sets the schedule for the proceedings against Rwanda

On June 26, the DRC brought its case before the highest court of the UN. It accuses Rwanda of violating four international conventions regarding genocide, racial discrimination, discrimination against women, and torture.

In its request, Kinshasa states that the reported incidents began in 1996 and have persisted for three decades. The Congolese authorities mention millions of dead, injured, and victims of sexual violence, as well as numerous crimes committed by militias considered to be acting on behalf of Kigali, including the M23.

Rwanda justified its incursions into Congolese territory as self-defense as early as 1996. The DRC contends that Kigali also pursued undisclosed objectives, including the eradication of Hutus and Nyindus as well as the illegal exploitation of natural resources in the eastern part of the country.

Hearings scheduled for early 2029

The deadline set for Rwanda to submit its memorial is December 4, 2028. However, these deadlines might change if either party requests a postponement during the proceedings.

The oral hearings before the International Court of Justice are currently scheduled for early 2029. A ruling could be issued approximately six months after the conclusion of the pleadings, according to the announced timeline.

By bringing the case to court, Kinshasa clarified that its démarche does not aim to challenge the genocide of Tutsis in 1994 or the diplomatic agreement reached in June 2025. The DRC intends to present to the judges the violations it attributes to Rwanda on Congolese territory.

In the event of victory, Kinshasa would ask the Court to order Kigali to issue official apologies, prosecute those responsible, and repair the damages caused. The judges’ decision will depend on the examination of the written memorials and then the arguments presented during the public hearings.