UN Security Council Advocates for End to Violence in Eastern DRC

The UN Security Council discussed the ongoing violence in eastern DRC, receiving insights from Bintou Keita, Special Representative. The report highlighted armed conflicts involving groups like M23 and ADF, efforts for regional mediation through the Luanda process, and the need for political reform. Keita emphasized collaboration among stakeholders, addressing gender-based violence, and the humanitarian crisis affecting millions.

On Monday, the UN Security Council convened to discuss critical issues facing the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as outlined by UN Special Representative Bintou Keita. She provided insights on the deteriorating security situation in the eastern provinces, where armed group activities have intensified, specifically those of ADF, M23, CODECO, and Zaïre. Keita commended the regional mediation efforts under the Luanda process, while emphasizing the importance of collaborative actions across local and international stakeholders to promote sustainable peace.

Keita also noted that a summit scheduled for December 15 aimed to unite leaders from Angola, the DRC, and Rwanda in efforts to enhance regional stability. She stressed the necessity for continuous support from both the international community and regional partners, along with vital input from local communities, civil society, and women’s groups to address ongoing violence effectively.

Moreover, political reforms in the DRC aim to strengthen governance and improve access to social services, reinforcing the justice system and managing public resources responsibly. Keita urged all parties to collaborate to prevent tensions over constitutional amendments, as peaceful dialogue is essential for national stability.

Reflecting on the security landscape, Keita related that the M23, which opted out of the recent ceasefire agreement, has expanded its territorial control significantly, while the ADF remains a lethal threat due to its violent actions against civilians. Although violence perpetrated by CODECO and Zaïre has diminished recently, civilians remain at risk, particularly in resource-rich regions.

Keita highlighted the dual challenge posed by ongoing conflict and climate change, which has led to approximately 6.4 million displaced individuals in the DRC. Despite these considerable hardships, the 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan is over 50% funded, indicating a step towards addressing these urgent needs.

The issue of gender-based violence was paramount in Keita’s address, with over 90,000 cases reported this year, predominantly in North Kivu. She commended the DRC government’s initiatives to combat impunity and emphasized the necessity of continued prevention efforts to safeguard vulnerable populations. In addition, she celebrated the ICC’s renewed investigative focus on serious crimes in North Kivu since January 2022.

Keita concluded by urging for increased investment in the welfare of women and persons with disabilities, who collectively seek the restoration of peace in eastern DRC, paving the way for their safe return to their communities and educational institutions with dignity.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been plagued by conflict, particularly in its eastern provinces. Armed groups continue to exert control over significant areas, leading to persistent violence against civilians and creating a complex humanitarian crisis. Efforts by local and international entities, including the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), aim to address these challenges and promote stability through dialogue and peace initiatives, such as the Luanda process, which involves neighboring countries. The DRC government is undergoing reforms to enhance governance and public service access, yet tensions around potential constitutional changes remain a pressing concern.

In summary, the UN Security Council’s session highlighted the dire need for sustained efforts to mitigate ongoing violence in eastern DRC. Bintou Keita’s report underscored both the challenges posed by armed groups and the imperative for collaborative local and international action. With significant humanitarian needs emerging from conflict-induced displacement, a multi-faceted approach emphasizing governance reform, regional cooperation, and the protection of vulnerable populations is crucial for restoring enduring peace in the region.

Original Source: news.un.org