The Democratic Republic of Congo has reiterated its request to the UN Security Council to suspend the participation, deployment, and rotation of Rwandan contingents in UN peacekeeping operations. This call comes until the Rwandan forces withdraw from Congolese territory, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2773. The resolution was adopted following the occupation of Goma and Bukavu by the M23 rebellion, supported by Rwanda.
The request was made by Zenon Mukongo Ngay, the DRC's permanent representative to the UN, during a quarterly briefing of the Security Council on the situation in the DRC. The briefing was chaired by France. Mukongo Ngay emphasized that countries whose forces are involved in a conflict cannot simultaneously contribute to peacekeeping operations. He stressed the need for consistency, credibility, and ethical standards in UN operations.
The DRC's request is based on the involvement of Rwandan forces in the conflict in eastern DRC, particularly their support for the M23 rebellion. The conflict has led to significant humanitarian concerns, including displacement of populations and human rights abuses. Mukongo Ngay also highlighted the establishment of parallel administrations in areas occupied by Rwandan forces and the M23.
The UN Security Council Resolution 2773, adopted unanimously, demands the cessation of support to the M23 and the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from Congolese territory. The DRC is concerned about the lack of progress in implementing these demands. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing clashes in eastern DRC and continued involvement of Rwandan forces.
The humanitarian situation in the affected areas is dire, with thousands of people displaced and reports of human rights abuses. The DRC has called on the UN to examine the situation closely and to support the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of refugees. The tripartite cooperation between the DRC, UNHCR, and Rwanda is crucial in addressing the refugee crisis.
The tensions between Kinshasa and Kigali remain high, with little progress from diplomatic initiatives led by Washington and Doha. The situation on the ground remains a concern, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict. The DRC's call to suspend Rwandan peacekeeper deployments is part of a broader effort to address the conflict and restore stability in the region.
The international community is closely watching the developments in the DRC, with the UN playing a critical role in maintaining peace and security. The DRC's request to the Security Council reflects the complexities of peacekeeping operations and the need for accountability. The situation in the DRC remains a priority for the international community, with efforts underway to address the root causes of the conflict.
Key points
- The DRC has reiterated its request to the UN Security Council to suspend the participation, deployment, and rotation of Rwandan contingents in UN peacekeeping operations until their forces withdraw from Congolese territory.
- The conflict in eastern DRC has led to significant humanitarian concerns, including displacement of populations and human rights abuses.
- The international community is closely watching the developments in the DRC, with the UN playing a critical role in maintaining peace and security.
