The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting to discuss the escalating crisis in Goma, DR Congo. Vivian van de Perre from MONUSCO reported severe humanitarian conditions, with over 178,000 displaced due to fighting between Congolese forces and M23 rebels. MONUSCO’s operations are strained as they accommodate a large influx of refugees, while ongoing assaults compromise the safety of UN personnel and facilities.
The UN Security Council convened for its second emergency meeting regarding the ongoing crisis in Goma, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Vivian van de Perre, Deputy Head of the UN Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), emphasized the urgent need for international cooperation to halt the violence between Congolese forces and M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda.
Reports indicate that clashes have rendered over 178,000 individuals homeless, particularly in Kalehe territory, and have overwhelmed the city’s infrastructure. More than 34,000 displaced persons have sought refuge in already overcrowded IDP sites surrounding Goma, significantly exacerbating humanitarian conditions.
Despite prior appeals for calm, the M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) launched heavy attacks on Goma, injuring numerous civilians and causing further displacements. Ms. Van de Perre noted the essential role of MONUSCO in providing refuge, as they have been inundated with civilians and surrendering soldiers alike, straining resources at their bases.
The safety of UN bases has been compromised due to assaults, including mortar attacks on MONUSCO facilities, hindering their operations and evacuation efforts for injured personnel. Despite the closure of Goma’s airport, MONUSCO continues to facilitate medical evacuations.
The situation has increased concerns about weapon proliferation as combatants blend in with civilians, raising vulnerabilities, particularly for women and children susceptible to violence. Ms. Van de Perre urged all parties to ensure life protection and basic service accessibility, condemning the unprecedented suffering experienced by the Goma population.
Additionally, she advocated for the creation of humanitarian corridors and a resumption of diplomatic talks involving Angola to prevent an escalation into a broader conflict. The briefing closed with a clarion call for unified international action to address the Goma crisis, reiterating MONUSCO’s indispensable role as a humanitarian pillar amidst logistical challenges.
The emphasis has been placed on prioritizing civilian protection and the peaceful resolution of conflicts to alleviate the ongoing suffering of the population in Goma.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has faced prolonged instability, severely affecting the eastern regions, particularly Goma, where armed conflicts have escalated. The involvement of external forces, specifically the Rwandan military supporting local rebel factions, has complicated the dynamics significantly. The UN Stabilization Mission (MONUSCO) is tasked with civilian protection and stabilizing the situation, but faces immense challenges amid increasing violence and a humanitarian fallout.
The humanitarian crisis in Goma necessitates significant international support and intervention to prevent further escalation of violence and suffering among civilians. Urgent actions to create safe passages for aid and resettle displaced populations are imperative. Furthermore, a political solution must be emphasized, leveraging diplomatic negotiations to achieve long-term peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: news.un.org
