The United Nations has warned that the life of a Congolese doctor who won the 2018 Nobel Peace prize is in danger after he received a series of death threats.

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet condemned the threats and called for protection of Dr. Denis Mukwege and his family.

"The threats appear to be more linked to his advocacy, you know his very robust positions taken on accountability, on the protection of women, as a result of what he's seen in decades in hospital," said Rupert Colville, the spokesperson for the U.N. rights chief.

Dr. Mukwege, a surgeon and gynaecologist, was awarded the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize after decades of work at Panzi hospital in Bukavu - which he founded - helping women who'd endured serious sexual abuse.

Bachelet urged the DR Congo authorities to adopt a draft law on the protection and regulation of the activity of human rights defenders "in a form that is fully consistent with international standards."

DR Congo President Felix Tshisekedi last week ordered for the protection of the 65-year-old as well as an inquiry into the threats against him.

(With input from the agencies)