UN High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih addressed the UN Security Council, calling for sustained support for peace efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He emphasized the need for a safe and durable return of millions of people displaced or in exile due to ongoing conflicts. The situation in eastern DR Congo remains volatile due to clashes between government forces and the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda.
Salih highlighted that DR Congo has faced decades of conflict and population displacement, affecting multiple generations. He noted that the crisis in Ebola has further exacerbated the situation, with children born in displacement and families constantly fleeing. The UNHCR chief also cited recent diplomatic engagements, including the Washington Peace Agreement and the Doha Declaration of Principles, as important steps towards peace and stability.
The UNHCR, under Salih's leadership, is committed to supporting the voluntary repatriation of refugees and displaced persons. He chaired a tripartite ministerial meeting with DR Congo, Rwanda, and the UNHCR on June 22, focusing on voluntary repatriation. The UNHCR aims to create conditions for refugees and displaced persons to return to their communities safely and rebuild their lives.
Salih stressed that the success of peace processes must be measured by their concrete impact on the lives of displaced populations. He urged the Security Council to support efforts to implement peace agreements and ensure the safe return of displaced persons. The UNHCR chief emphasized that displaced persons must be able to return voluntarily, safely, and rebuild their lives sustainably.
Despite recent diplomatic efforts, including the Washington Peace Agreement and the Qatar-facilitated agreement between Kinshasa and the M23 rebel group, the situation on the ground remains challenging. Clashes continue, and mutual accusations of ceasefire violations and disagreements over implementing agreements persist. These developments sustain mistrust between parties and complicate the implementation of peace initiatives.
The international community, including the UN Security Council, has been urged to press for respect for commitments made under peace initiatives. However, these appeals have had limited impact so far, highlighting the gap between diplomatic progress and the reality on the ground. Reducing this gap remains a challenge, with parties interpreting agreements according to their own perspectives.
Salih's address to the Security Council comes amid ongoing concerns about the humanitarian situation in DR Congo. The UNHCR and other humanitarian organizations continue to advocate for the protection of civilians and the creation of conditions for safe and sustainable returns. The international community's engagement and support are crucial in promoting lasting peace and stability in the region.
Key points
- The UN High Commissioner for Refugees called for sustained support for peace efforts in DR Congo to enable safe and durable returns of refugees and displaced persons.
- Recent diplomatic engagements, including the Washington Peace Agreement and the Doha Declaration of Principles, offer perspectives for improved security and humanitarian situations.
- The success of peace processes must be measured by their concrete impact on the lives of displaced populations.
