**Security in North Kivu: Between Humanitarian Emergency and Defense Strategy**
On January 7, MP Emile Saidi Balikwisha sounded the alarm on the precarious security situation in the territories of Beni and Lubero, in the province of North Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This observation reflects a much broader problem that affects not only this region, but also the entire eastern DRC. While calls for immediate measures are increasing, the depth of the evil and the challenges to be met deserve special attention beyond simple requests for military reinforcement.
### An Alarming Observation
Balikwisha’s recommendation comes in a context marked by an escalation of violence, attributed mainly to armed groups, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). The question that arises here is: why does this security vacuum persist despite past military interventions and the commitment of national and international actors?
The ADF, an armed group of Ugandan origin, has managed to establish itself in this complex region, fueled by inter-community violence, ethnic rivalries and cries of despair from the populations faced with the absence of the State. According to recent statistics, more than 1.4 million people in Ituri and North Kivu are now living in displaced persons camps, a situation exacerbated by recurring conflicts and tragic human losses.
### The Consequences of a Military Reinforcement
If the MP advocates for a reinforcement of military personnel, the question of the means and effectiveness of past military strategies must be put on the table. Indeed, the simple multiplication of troops does not automatically guarantee security. The recent history of the DRC has shown that military presence, without a policy of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) of armed groups, can lead to increased militarization of society and human rights violations.
To reduce violence in the long term, a more nuanced approach is needed: combining military capacity building with socio-economic development initiatives. Supporting local populations through the establishment of sustainable development projects could help eradicate the roots of violence and establish lasting peace. This duality between security and development echoes the concerns of international agencies that advocate for a comprehensive response to the conflict.
### A Reflection on Alliances
The MP’s question also touches on the need to establish strategic partnerships with regional and international actors. Further involving the United Nations, the African Union, as well as civil society organizations, could flesh out a multi-sectoral security strategy. In doing so, joint initiatives undertaken by communities, military forces and international organizations could help restore trust, which is essential for the return of peace.
### Citizens’ Voice
It is also essential to give voice to the inhabitants who live this period of anxiety on a daily basis. Their perspective is often underestimated in political debates, while they are the first concerned by the consequences of insecurity. Local human rights groups, in particular, could play a key role in identifying specific needs and in mediating between the different stakeholders.
A survey conducted by local organizations revealed that a majority of citizens in North Kivu aspire to peaceful and inclusive solutions, far from simple military measures. This citizen consultation could inform the development of policies more adapted to the realities on the ground.
### In Conclusion
The security crisis in North Kivu is symptomatic of a broader malaise that requires innovative and humane solutions. MP Balikwisha’s call for a military build-up, while essential in the short term, must be accompanied by a deeper reflection on the underlying socio-political issues. A holistic approach, which combines military security and socio-economic development, while respecting the rights of local populations, could well be the key to a peaceful future in this region scarred by decades of conflict.
In the search for solutions to the crisis in North Kivu, the voice of citizens must resonate as a future hope and not as a distant memory. A new balance must be created between the demand for security and respect for human dignity. Investors, governments and NGOs must heed this call to transform fear into resilience and pain into hope.