UN Envoy Urges Commitment to Peace Amid Ongoing Violence in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

James Swan, the newly appointed head of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), delivered his inaugural briefing to the Security Council. This briefing comes nearly a year after the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda signed a peace agreement in Washington, D.C. The ongoing initiatives, including the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement and mediation efforts spearheaded by the African Union, have established a pathway to address the long-standing conflict in eastern DRC.

Swan emphasized the critical need to maintain momentum and ensure that the commitments made by the signatories are fully implemented.

Continued Violence in Key Regions

Swan highlighted the precarious security situation in eastern DRC, where civilians are bearing the brunt of ongoing violence. Clashes persist in North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces, with heavy fighting reported between the Alliance Fleuve Congo/23rd of March Movement (AFC/M23), backed by Rwandan forces, and the Congolese Army (FARDC), which is allied with the Wazalendo armed group. In certain areas, FARDC is also supported by the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an armed group primarily composed of ethnic Hutu members linked to the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.

The fighting is concentrated in two significant locations: Rubaya, a vital mining hub, and the Rutshuru area, as well as the high plains of South Kivu. The use of offensive drones, artillery, and heavy weaponry has escalated the risks faced by civilians and infrastructure.

Despite some withdrawal by AFC/M23 from specific areas, the group continues to strengthen its administrative control over the territories it occupies. Swan called for the immediate deployment of a mechanism to monitor and verify ceasefire commitments established under the Doha process. MONUSCO has already provided office space in Goma and is preparing logistical support for ceasefire monitoring missions.

Civilians Under Threat

The ongoing violence has led to severe consequences for civilians. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have emerged as a significant threat, having killed 287 civilians in Ituri since the last Security Council meeting, including 44 women. In North Kivu, ADF violence, which had temporarily subsided earlier this year, has resumed in Beni territory, resulting in the deaths of 66 civilians, including 17 women and three children.

Since March 19, MONUSCO has documented 632 civilian deaths linked to armed conflict in North Kivu and Ituri. Additionally, the UN has reported 1,221 human rights violations during the same period, including instances of conflict-related sexual violence perpetrated by armed groups and members of the defense and security forces. In total, 2,968 victims have been affected, including 392 women and 378 children.

In response to the escalating violence, MONUSCO has intensified patrols and established more mobile operating bases in areas impacted by ADF attacks and around sites for internally displaced persons. Since March 19, peacekeepers and the Congolese Army have conducted over 2,000 joint patrols. The mission is also supporting local and provincial peace initiatives, particularly in Ituri, where progress has been made in facilitating dialogue among armed groups.

Humanitarian Crisis and Ebola Outbreak

Swan underscored MONUSCO’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate amid a liquidity crisis affecting UN peace operations, coinciding with rising humanitarian needs in the DRC. The humanitarian situation is dire, with nearly 27 million people—over a quarter of the population—experiencing food insecurity. A $1.4 billion humanitarian plan aimed at assisting 7.3 million people this year is currently only 53 percent funded.

The situation is further complicated by an Ebola outbreak declared on May 15, occurring in areas afflicted by active conflict and urban settings with strained health services, significantly increasing the risk of further spread.

UN Support Remains Strong

In concluding his briefing, Swan urged all parties involved in the Washington and Doha agreements to remain committed to achieving a lasting peace. He reiterated calls from the UN Secretary-General for full compliance with two Security Council resolutions that reaffirm respect for the DRC’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity.

“MONUSCO’s support for the aspirations of the Congolese people for sustainable peace, security, and development remains unwavering,” Swan stated.

Source: www.zawya.com

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Published on 2026-06-27 15:58:00 • By the Editorial Desk