The UN Security Council underscored the importance of collective efforts to address the ongoing violence and challenges in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Bintou Keita, head of MONUSCO, pointed out progress in ceasefire agreements and political reforms, while emphasizing the urgent need for international cooperation to curb illegal natural resource trafficking and protect civilians amidst rising tensions and humanitarian crises.
Efforts at both national and international levels are imperative to stabilize the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) amidst persistent instability characterized by ongoing violence in the eastern regions, illicit trafficking of natural resources, and various other adversities, as underscored during a session of the United Nations Security Council last Monday. Bintou Keita, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for the DRC and head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), emphasized the necessity for collective engagement in support of the nation’s quest for peace and stability. The recent cessation of hostilities, declared during a meeting involving the DRC and Rwanda on July 30, has led to a significant reduction in armed conflict among opposing factions. However, Ms. Keita cautioned, “but peace is not yet won.” She noted that ongoing diplomatic dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda, facilitated by Angola, has generated an active framework aimed at proactively mediating and resolving existing conflicts, although much work remains to be done. Political and institutional reforms in the DRC, while progressing incrementally, face formidable hurdles, particularly in the context of escalating competition over natural resource exploitation which exacerbates and perpetuates violence in the eastern territories. The intense struggle for control over mining areas, especially in Ituri province, has been fueled by the increasing militarization of armed groups as they vie for dominance over lucrative goldmining operations. This situation has rendered government forces and local leaders unable to effectively manage these factions, resulting in heightened military and financial empowerment of these groups. The M23 military faction, consolidating control over territories in North Kivu, is reported to have monopolized coltan production, a significant resource used in electronics manufacturing. The monthly revenue from the Rubaya area is estimated at $300,000, leading to concerns over the ramifications of illegal resource trade which facilitates armed groups and exacerbates civilian suffering. Ms. Keita highlighted the urgent need for international sanctions against those profiting from this illicit trafficking, stating that peace efforts will remain futile unless these measures are taken. In the meantime, the security threat posed by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) continues to loom large, with recent escalations in violence resulting in significant civilian casualties. The humanitarian crisis has also deepened, displacing approximately 2.4 million individuals since the beginning of the year, many of whom are living in overcrowded conditions susceptible to diseases. Furthermore, political tensions are rising within the DRC as opposition parties challenge the government’s commitment to political freedoms and democratic processes, exacerbating the social instability. The prevalence of sexual violence remains another grave concern, with reports indicating a 10 percent rise in the number of victims treated by humanitarian partners this year. To address these multifaceted challenges, Ms. Keita urged for united regional and international efforts to bolster peace initiatives, remarking that while the mediation advancements by Angola represent an opportunity to alleviate tensions, sustainable peace necessitates investment at village and community levels throughout the DRC. She reaffirmed the commitment of MONUSCO to civilian protection while emphasizing ongoing collaborative efforts with local and international stakeholders to strengthen the safety and stability of communities. With MONUSCO recently concluding its operations in South Kivu, an evaluative process is underway to ensure a structured disengagement while sustaining peace and security gains. There remains an estimated requirement of $57 million for the DRC to manage the transition effectively, with the government having allocated $30 million to this end. As MONUSCO exits the province, Ms. Keita assured that the mission would continue its protective and supportive roles until its final departure, reiterating that “MONUSCO is leaving, but until our very last day, we will continue to protect civilians, support meaningful peace initiatives, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance and assist the Congolese State in its stabilization efforts.”
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, primarily in the eastern regions, fueled by competition for natural resources and the power struggles among various armed groups. The international community, particularly through the United Nations, has been involved in peacekeeping and stabilization efforts, yet the challenges remain substantial. Plagued by historical instability, the DRC continues to face difficulties in governance, economic management, and human rights, which complicate peace initiatives. Recent developments, including ceasefire agreements and dialogues with neighboring nations, represent partially hopeful steps, but the reality on the ground reflects ongoing violence, humanitarian crises, and political tensions.
In conclusion, the stability and peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo hinge on collaborative national and international efforts to address the ongoing violence, illegal resource exploitation, humanitarian crises, and political tensions. The framework for dialogue opened by recent ceasefires and mediation must be nurtured through sustained investment and cooperation within local communities. The urgency for international sanctions against those benefitting from illicit trades cannot be overstated, as achieving lasting peace is essential not only for the DRC but also for regional stability. The dedication of entities such as MONUSCO to continue their protective and supportive roles until full withdrawal underlines the necessity of a cautious and planned approach to peacebuilding in the DRC.
Original Source: news.un.org
