The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains worrying, with an alarming increase in the number of civilians killed by the M23 since November 2023. According to information reported by Bintou Keita, special representative of the UN Secretary General and Head of the MONUSCO, at least 150 civilians have lost their lives, including 77 in January 2024 alone. This escalation of violence has also led to massive displacements of populations towards Goma and South Kivu.
M23 continues to pressure displaced people to return to areas under its control, as well as recruiting children as soldiers, in flagrant violation of human rights. Violent clashes between the FARDC and the M23 have created a situation of fear and insecurity, forcing many families to flee for their safety.
Faced with this deterioration of the security situation, MONUSCO is strengthening its troops along the RN2 national road linking Sake and Goma, with the arrival of South African troops to support the contingents already present on the ground. Peacekeepers continue to ensure the safe evacuation of civilians caught in the middle of the conflict, providing them with vital protection.
It is crucial to remember that the protection of civilians is an absolute priority in this context of violence and insecurity. Humanitarian organizations and the international community must redouble their efforts to respond to the humanitarian needs of populations affected by this conflict.
Together, it is imperative that we work to end this spiral of violence and instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo, to allow communities to regain the peace and security they desperately need.