Title: Democratic Republic of Congo: MONUSCO enters its final phase despite a deteriorating security situation
Introduction :
In a confidential report to the United Nations Security Council, Secretary General Antonio Guterres announced that the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (Monusco) was entering its final phase. However, this decision comes in a context of deteriorating security situation in the country. This 15-page report also outlines an accelerated and responsible exit plan for the Mission after 25 years of presence in the DRC.
A worrying security situation:
According to Antonio Guterres, regional tensions have worsened in recent months, leading to a significant deterioration of the security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Violence and massive population displacements have become commonplace in some eastern provinces of the country.
The report also mentions the presence of March 23 Movement (M23) fighters who occupy several territories in eastern DRC and who are responsible for arbitrary arrests and summary executions. This presence testifies to the complexity of the situation and the challenges that MONUSCO must face.
Dissatisfaction with Monusco:
Despite its long-standing presence in the DRC, MONUSCO faces growing discontent and frustration from the Congolese population. Demonstrations demanding the departure of the Mission are increasing, accusing Monusco of being passive in the face of violence and human rights violations.
However, the report stresses that the withdrawal of Monusco must be accelerated and responsible, in accordance with the will of the Congolese government. He also warns against a premature departure which could have consequences for the civilian population who rely on the Mission to ensure their protection.
The desire for a transition towards greater autonomy:
The President of the DRC, Félix Tshisekedi, has expressed his desire to see Monusco withdraw from the country after the presidential elections scheduled for December 2022. He considers that the time has come for the DRC to take charge of its own stabilization and its development.
However, the United Nations stresses the need for a gradual transition and continued support to the DRC in order to guarantee the protection of civilians and the consolidation of peace in the country. This is a major challenge that the Congolese authorities will have to face in the years to come.
Conclusion :
The security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains worrying, despite the final phase of the withdrawal of Monusco. The confidential report highlights the challenges facing the Mission, as well as the Congolese population’s dissatisfaction with it. The withdrawal of Monusco must be carried out in an accelerated and responsible manner, guaranteeing the protection of civilians and supporting the transition towards greater autonomy for the DRC in the stabilization and development of the country