The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo faces renewed violence from the M23 rebel group, exacerbated by support from Rwandan forces. Civilians are suffering greatly, with significant casualties and displacements reported. MONUSCO is struggling to protect both its personnel and displaced individuals due to resource shortages. There is an urgent call for political dialogue and humanitarian corridors to avert further civilian suffering.
The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is experiencing a resurgence of violence, particularly from the M23 rebel group, resulting in immense suffering for civilians and raising concerns about potential regional conflict. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the Under-Secretary General for Peacekeeping, noted that since the beginning of 2023, M23 has engaged in extensive offensive operations supported by Rwandan forces. This escalation of clashes poses a severe humanitarian crisis.
Recent attacks on Goma by the M23 and Rwandan troops have caused significant civilian casualties and displacement. Vivian van de Perre, Deputy Special Representative of MONUSCO, highlighted the devastation inflicted on the city. “These attacks continue to ravage the city, killing, injuring, traumatizing, and displacing civilians and exacerbating the crisis,” she remarked, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
MONUSCO has provided support to the armed forces of the DRC (FARDC), including artillery fire. However, as the M23’s offensives intensified, MONUSCO was compelled to relocate some personnel and implement protective measures for its members. Supplies have become scarce, and the mission’s capabilities are stretched in light of the deteriorating security situation.
Recently, three UN peacekeepers lost their lives, and over twenty were injured during the ongoing conflict. MONUSCO continues to prioritize the protection of civilians while struggling with inadequate shelter for them. Additionally, the safety of MONUSCO’s bases has been compromised, with reported mortar attacks directly hitting their compounds.
In light of these developments, Ms. van de Perre urged for the immediate establishment of humanitarian corridors to safeguard civilians. She called on all parties to halt hostilities and pursue political dialogue. The Secretary-General has also urged ongoing cooperation between Rwanda and the DRC within the framework of the Luanda peace process for a resolution to the conflict.
The Security Council has reiterated the necessity for a political resolution and encouraged diplomatic discussions to address the ongoing crisis efficiently and inclusively.
The current conflict in the eastern DRC has escalated due to the increased military actions by the M23 rebel group, compounded by support from Rwandan forces. The humanitarian impact on civilians is severe, with reports of casualties, displacement, and trauma rising alarmingly. MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in the region, faces challenges in providing adequate protection and resources amidst the turmoil. The international community, particularly the UN, recognizes the urgency of peaceful negotiations to prevent further escalation and civilian suffering.
The ongoing crisis in the DRC, marked by violent offensives from the M23 supported by Rwanda, has resulted in dire consequences for civilians. MONUSCO’s efforts are critically impeded by resource shortages and security threats to both peacekeepers and displaced individuals. There is an urgent need for political dialogue and humanitarian solutions to mitigate the conflict’s impact and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations.
Original Source: peacekeeping.un.org