The eastern DRC faces severe escalated fighting due to M23 rebel operations supported by Rwanda. Civilians are suffering significant casualties and displacement, while UN peacekeepers are under extreme pressure to protect both civilians and themselves. The need for humanitarian corridors and peaceful political dialogue has become essential to mitigate further civilian suffering.
The resumption of hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is inflicting severe harm on civilians, as articulated by the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the Under-Secretary General for Peacekeeping, reported that the M23 group has initiated extensive offensive operations from the year’s commencement, allegedly with the backing of Rwandan forces.
On January 26th, both the M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force attacked the critical city of Goma, as reported by Vivian van de Perre, Deputy Special Representative for Protection and Operations of MONUSCO. These attacks are causing significant casualties and displacing many civilians, escalating an already dire humanitarian crisis in the region.
Despite providing support to the armed forces of the DRC (FARDC) and other regional troops, MONUSCO had to relocate its non-essential personnel due to the overwhelming force they face, which is reportedly backed by Rwanda. Many peacekeepers have been compelled to take shelter in bunkers due to ongoing hostilities, while the protection of UN personnel has become paramount amid a critical shortage of supplies.
In this dangerous environment, three UN peacekeepers have tragically lost their lives, and numerous others have sustained injuries. While the mission is focused on safeguarding civilians and assisting human rights advocates, its facilities are overwhelmed by the influx of vulnerable individuals seeking safety. The bases themselves are reportedly unsafe, with recent mortar attacks occurring on MONUSCO compounds.
Amidst this worsening crisis, Ms. van de Perre urged for the immediate establishment of humanitarian corridors and a cessation of hostilities, calling for all parties involved to engage in political dialogue to alleviate civilian suffering. The UN Secretary-General also stressed the importance of both Rwanda and the DRC participating actively in the Luanda peace process to effectively address and end the conflict.
Ultimately, resolving the crisis in the DRC necessitates an inclusive political approach, as emphasized by the Security Council. The Council has called upon both Rwanda and the DRC to return to diplomatic negotiations to pursue a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the ongoing strife in the region.
The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced renewed violence primarily due to the resurgence and military activities of the M23 rebel group, which is allegedly receiving support from Rwandan forces. This situation has profound implications for the local civilian population, who are facing displacement, injuries, and fatalities due to ongoing conflicts. The UN peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO) is actively engaged in efforts to protect civilians and maintain some level of order amidst these crises, yet it faces substantial challenges and risks as the military environment deteriorates.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC, driven by M23 offensives and external support, is causing immense suffering for local civilians. The MONUSCO peacekeeping mission is struggling to fulfill its protective mandate under increasingly perilous conditions. Urgent international and political efforts are required to establish humanitarian corridors, cease hostilities, and foster dialogue among conflicting parties to move towards a resolution and restore peace in the region.
Original Source: peacekeeping.un.org
