The UN Security Council held an urgent meeting to address the crisis in the DRC, particularly in Goma, following the M23 rebel group’s takeover. The humanitarian situation worsens as combat continues, prompting calls for humanitarian pauses. Diplomatic efforts are underway to mediate the conflict, focusing on the dynamics between the DRC and Rwanda.
On 28 January, the United Nations Security Council convened its second urgent meeting of the week regarding the escalating crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Following a letter from DRC’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, the meeting was prompted by a request to discuss the worsening security situation particularly around Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu.
The rebel group, Mouvement du 23 Mars (M23), has claimed takeover of Goma after an ultimatum for Congolese Armed Forces to surrender expired. Reports indicate that M23 forces are now occupying the city amid ongoing fighting, resulting in unrest and violent protests in Kinshasa, with attacks on multiple embassies.
The humanitarian situation has significantly deteriorated, with many internally displaced persons in Goma facing dire conditions. Humanitarian operations are hindered as basic services have been disrupted, the airport is closed, and border crossings to Rwanda are shut. UN officials have appealed for temporary pauses to facilitate humanitarian aid and evacuate civilians trapped in conflict zones.
The MONUSCO mission continues to face safety concerns, resulting in the evacuation of non-essential staff. MONUSCO peacekeepers are attempting to provide civilian protection and support disarmament processes for defeated FARDC soldiers. Tragically, fatalities and injuries have occurred among peacekeepers during the conflict.
Elections within the Security Council revealed tensions over a draft statement condemning the M23’s offensive. The statement urged an immediate cessation of military advances and highlighted external violations of the DRC’s sovereignty. However, explicit criticism of Rwanda’s role was resisted by several council members.
In light of Rwanda’s perceived involvement in the conflict, the DRC has expressed frustration with the Council and the African Union for their vague statements. Concurrently, Rwanda attributed the escalation to FARDC actions, promoting a dialogue approach through regional mediation processes.
Diplomatic efforts are intensifying with leaders striving for de-escalation and dialogue. Kenya’s President Ruto aims to convene an extraordinary East African Community summit soon. However, uncertainty remains regarding the participation of DRC’s President Tshisekedi due to previous absences from regional meetings.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, marked by political instability, violent confrontations, and humanitarian crises. The current situation in Goma, a city in Eastern DRC, is particularly acute, exacerbated by the M23 rebel group’s resurgence. The UN Security Council plays a crucial role in mediating international responses and addressing violations of human rights in such conflict zones, while regional dynamics continue to influence the conflict’s trajectory, particularly involving Rwanda.
The Security Council’s urgent meeting reflects heightened concerns over the volatile situation in the DRC, particularly in Goma, due to M23’s advances. As humanitarian needs intensify, diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region and address the concerns posed by external actors, especially Rwanda, are becoming critical. The conflict’s resolution hinges on sustained dialogue and properly coordinated humanitarian responses to alleviate the suffering of affected civilians.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
