Security Council Condemns M23 Advances in DRC
The United Nations Security Council has issued a strong condemnation of the recent military advances made by the M23 group in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The statement, delivered by Council President Amar Bendjama of Algeria, highlights the urgent need for immediate action to protect civilians and restore peace in the region. The ongoing conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis, displacing hundreds of thousands and threatening the stability of the DRC. The Council’s response underscores the importance of adhering to ceasefire agreements and the necessity of diplomatic negotiations to resolve the conflict.
Condemnation of M23’s Military Actions
The Security Council expressed grave concern over the M23’s recent territorial gains, particularly the capture of Masisi center on January 4, 2025, and Sake on January 23, 2025. These actions are viewed as serious violations of the ceasefire agreement and pose imminent threats to the city of Goma. The Council emphasized that these advances exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in Eastern DRC. Hundreds of thousands of civilians are at heightened risk due to the escalating violence. The Council reiterated its demand for the M23 to halt its offensive and reverse its territorial expansion without delay.
The statement aligns with the Secretary-General’s previous remarks on January 26, 2025, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The Security Council’s condemnation reflects a unified stance against the ongoing violence and a commitment to restoring peace in the region. The members stressed that the actions of the M23 not only undermine efforts for a lasting political solution but also threaten the safety and security of civilians caught in the conflict.
Support for MONUSCO and Peacekeepers
The Security Council reaffirmed its unwavering support for the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO). The mission plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in the region, particularly around Goma. The Council members paid tribute to the peacekeepers who risk their lives to protect civilians and maintain stability. They expressed deep condolences to the families of peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, particularly those from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay.
The Council highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety of MONUSCO personnel, noting that attacks against peacekeepers could constitute war crimes. They called for accountability for those involved in planning or conducting such attacks. The commitment to MONUSCO’s mandate is critical, as the mission works to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian assistance in a region plagued by violence and instability.
Addressing Regional Tensions and External Forces
The Security Council condemned the unauthorized presence of external forces in Eastern DRC, as reported by the Group of Experts. They demanded the immediate withdrawal of these forces and urged the M23 to cease establishing parallel administrations within DRC territory. The Council called for all parties involved to adhere strictly to the ceasefire agreement and to engage in diplomatic talks to resolve the ongoing conflict.
The members emphasized the need for Rwanda and the DRC to return to negotiations to address the complex issues surrounding the presence of Rwandan Defense Forces in Eastern DRC and the DRC’s support for the Forces Démocratiques de Libération du Rwanda (FDLR). The Council reaffirmed its support for the ongoing mediation efforts led by the African Union-designated mediator, President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of Angola. A collaborative approach is essential for achieving a lasting and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Human Rights Violations and Accountability
The Security Council expressed alarm over the persistent violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses in Eastern DRC. Reports of sexual and gender-based violence, the recruitment of child soldiers, and summary killings by armed groups are deeply concerning. The Council called for accountability for all perpetrators of these heinous acts.
Furthermore, the members urged both the DRC and the M23 to fully implement their commitments under the Luanda process. Cooperation with Angola is vital to accelerate the neutralization of the FDLR and the disengagement of armed forces. The Council also stressed the importance of resuming consultations under the Nairobi Process, guided by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, to address the ongoing issues posed by armed groups in the region.
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