Jean-Pierre Lacroix, a senior United Nations (UN) official, has voiced deep concerns about the growing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He warned of the risks of further destabilization in the region amid the ongoing conflict between the Congolese government and the rebel group M23.

The M23’s advances, particularly in the eastern provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu, have exacerbated an already dire humanitarian crisis, displacing thousands of people. The tensions have also resulted in the establishment of a parallel administration in the captured territories, reportedly supported by the Congo River Alliance.

Lacroix emphasized the urgent need to curb further instability, highlighting the critical role of the UN’s mission in the DRC, Monusco, which continues to protect civilians under increasingly challenging conditions. He stated that while the mission is committed to safeguarding lives, the ongoing violence complicates these efforts with each passing day.

In response to the crisis, the UN has adopted Resolution 2773, demanding an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of foreign forces from the DRC. Meanwhile, regional organizations such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Office of the Compliance Advisor Ombudsman (CAO) are actively working towards peace, although negotiations remain fraught with challenges.

Efforts to foster dialogue suffered a setback after the M23 withdrew from peace talks in reaction to sanctions imposed by the European Union. This development has cast doubt on the future of the negotiations. Lacroix reiterated that achieving a ceasefire is a critical step in preventing further deterioration of the situation and stressed that time is of the essence in the pursuit of a lasting solution.

The UN continues its efforts to collaborate with all stakeholders to address the root causes of the conflict, protect civilians, and lay the foundation for sustainable peace in the region.

EN ESTA NOTA: