Oversight of humanitarian institutions in the DRC: protecting the integrity and effectiveness of aid
In the interest of transparency and security, the President of the Republic of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) recently launched an initiative aimed at controlling non-governmental organizations operating in the national territory. These checks are intended to ensure that NGOs comply with the laws and regulations in force in the country.
According to reports received by the government, a security drift has been observed in some humanitarian institutions. Some NGOs could be involved in subversion actions, under the guise of humanitarian activities. This alarming situation has led the Congolese authorities to take strict measures to put an end to these practices and protect the integrity of humanitarian aid.
The checks will include the NGOs’ annual reports for the last five years, highlighting the evolution of their performance over time. They will also verify their funding sources and ensure that there are no abnormal connections. In addition, particular attention will be given to the supervision exercised by expatriate staff, in particular those with a military or paramilitary background.
The Congolese government thus wishes to avoid any foreign interference in the internal affairs of the country and to ensure that the NGOs operating in the DRC focus only on their humanitarian activities. It is essential to preserve the independence of humanitarian institutions and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most in a transparent and efficient manner.
As part of this initiative, an inter-ministerial commission made up of the Ministers of the Interior, Foreign Affairs, Justice and Planning has been set up to produce a comprehensive report on the issue. This inter-ministerial collaboration will ensure a comprehensive and consistent approach to the NGO oversight process.
It is time to restore confidence in the humanitarian sector in the DRC and ensure that the resources and efforts deployed are used optimally to help the most vulnerable populations. This rigorous control of humanitarian institutions testifies to the Congolese government’s desire to strengthen the transparency and effectiveness of humanitarian aid and to face the security challenges facing the country.
The DRC remains a country in dire need of help and support. By strengthening supervision and ensuring compliance with rules and standards, the government wants to ensure that aid actually reaches those in need and contributes to improving living conditions in the country..
More than ever, it is necessary to work in collaboration with humanitarian institutions, to establish strong partnerships and to promote an approach based on fundamental humanitarian principles