Security Council Unanimously Adopts Resolution 2808 (2025), Renewing Mandate of UN Organization

The United Nations Security Council has unanimously extended the mandate of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) for another year, emphasizing the need to support the implementation of a permanent ceasefire with Rwanda. This decision comes amid escalating tensions in the eastern provinces of the DRC, where the 23 March Movement (M23) armed group continues its offensive, reportedly with backing from Rwandan forces. The renewed mandate, effective until December 20, 2026, aims to stabilize the region and protect civilians.

Security Council’s Resolution and Mandate Details

The Security Council adopted resolution 2808 (2025), which maintains the staffing levels of MONUSCO as per the previous mandate. This includes 11,500 military personnel, 600 military observers, 443 police personnel, and 1,270 personnel in formed police units. The Council condemned the M23’s ongoing offensive in South Kivu, particularly the seizure of Uvira, which poses a significant threat to regional stability and civilian safety. The resolution calls for an immediate halt to the M23’s military actions and urges Rwanda to withdraw its defense forces from the DRC’s eastern provinces. Furthermore, the Council emphasized the importance of all parties adhering to their commitments to establish a permanent and verifiable ceasefire.

The resolution also authorizes MONUSCO to assist in implementing the ceasefire, in line with a previous resolution and a mechanism agreed upon by the involved parties in Doha. The Council noted a pause in MONUSCO’s disengagement in the eastern provinces due to the evolving security situation, urging local authorities to take concrete steps to protect civilians, especially vulnerable groups such as women and children.

Phased Departure and Future Considerations

The renewal of MONUSCO’s mandate coincides with ongoing discussions between the United Nations and the Congolese government regarding a phased withdrawal of the mission. Future steps will depend on the security conditions on the ground, the ability of national authorities to ensure civilian protection, and continued support from UN entities and partners. The Council expressed its readiness to consider a gradual and responsible withdrawal from North Kivu and Ituri when conditions allow, emphasizing the need for joint planning between the government and the UN.

In light of misinformation campaigns aimed at undermining MONUSCO’s credibility, the Council has requested the mission to enhance its communication efforts. This includes fostering joint communications with the Congolese government to improve public awareness and support for the mission’s objectives, particularly regarding the protection of civilians and the timeline for withdrawal.

International Reactions and Support for Peace Efforts

The representative of France, who led the drafting of the resolution, highlighted the unusual circumstances under which the Council negotiated the text, citing the ongoing M23 offensive. He emphasized that the resolution aims to position MONUSCO at the forefront of peace efforts, collaborating with various international stakeholders, including the African Union and the United States. The U.S. representative expressed satisfaction with the peacekeeping operation’s strategic placement to assist in ongoing peace initiatives, reaffirming commitment to the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity between the DRC and Rwanda.

China’s representative cautioned against countries manipulating MONUSCO for their political agendas, urging all external actors to genuinely commit to peace in the DRC. Meanwhile, the Russian Federation’s delegate called for clear guidance on MONUSCO’s role in the Doha monitoring mechanism, stressing that any deployment of peacekeepers to South Kivu would require confirmation of suitable conditions from the mission’s leadership.

Calls for Action Against M23 and Ongoing Challenges

Pakistan’s delegate underscored the necessity for the Security Council to impose strict measures against M23 and its supporters if any restrictions hinder MONUSCO’s ability to fulfill its mandate. This sentiment was echoed by the representative of Sierra Leone, who, speaking on behalf of several nations, urged the Council to confront the harsh reality that peace has yet to be achieved in the DRC. The ongoing conflict, which has persisted for over three decades, necessitates decisive actions to address the underlying factors enabling it.

The Security Council’s resolution and the discussions surrounding MONUSCO’s mandate renewal reflect the complex and challenging landscape of peacekeeping in the DRC. As the situation evolves, the international community remains focused on supporting efforts to stabilize the region and protect its civilian population.

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