Recent revelations concerning South African peacekeepers deployed in Béni, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, have sent shock waves through the UN mission. Indeed, eight of them were arrested and one officer was suspended following allegations of alleged sexual exploitation and violence. These acts, if proven, constitute serious misconduct and are in total violation of UN rules.
Internal MONUSCO documents, consulted by AFP, report a possible “systematic and widespread violation” of the rules against sexual exploitation and abuse on the part of these peacekeepers. The latter are allegedly involved in activities linked to brothels and transactional sex. “Bothels” bearing the evocative names of South African towns were discovered near the Monusco base in Mavivi, near Béni.
Faced with these accusations, MONUSCO took strong measures in accordance with the zero tolerance policy of the Secretary General of the United Nations. The eight peacekeepers were suspended, detained and placed in confinement, while the offending officer is also subject to suspension. The mission strongly condemns this behavior which is far from being worthy of United Nations personnel.
These revelations come in addition to the numerous criticisms of which the UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been the subject. The Congolese government, disappointed by the ineffectiveness of MONUSCO in the fight against armed groups, has requested an accelerated departure of the peacekeeping force from next December. He also requested support from SADC countries to strengthen the Congolese army in the face of the M23 rebellion.
These cases of sexual exploitation within the ranks of the Blue Helmets are unfortunately not isolated and have tarnished the reputation of the UN. It is essential that strict measures are taken to prevent and punish these unacceptable acts. The population’s trust in peace missionaries depends on the transparency and rigor with which such incidents are handled.
In conclusion, the recent arrests of South African peacekeepers for serious misconduct are further proof of the urgency of strengthening the fight against sexual exploitation within peacekeeping missions. It is essential that the UN takes drastic measures to eradicate these practices and restore confidence in its troops on the ground.